Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Murli Manohar Joshi has said that India should not currently be described as a “Vishwa Guru", asserting that the country does not hold the same global intellectual and cultural standing it once enjoyed. His remarks came during a public event in the national capital, where he reflected on India’s historical legacy and present position in the world.

Joshi made the statement while inaugurating the central office of Samskrita Bharati, an organisation dedicated to promoting the Sanskrit language. Addressing attendees, he said that although India had historically been regarded as a guiding force in knowledge and philosophy, the term “Vishwa Guru” should not be applied in the current context.

Elaborating on his stance, Joshi stated that while India “used to be” a Vishwa Guru, it is not appropriate to claim that status today. He stressed that the country should work towards regaining that position rather than assuming it already exists, highlighting the need for introspection and sustained effort in education, culture, and intellectual development.

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During his address, Joshi also strongly advocated for the promotion of Sanskrit, describing it as the "pran", or lifeblood, of India. He said that the language forms the foundation of the country’s rich intellectual and spiritual traditions and must be preserved and encouraged among younger generations to maintain continuity with India’s heritage.

The former Union Human Resource Development minister recalled his earlier initiatives to promote Sanskrit learning, including the introduction of short-term courses aimed at making the language more accessible. He emphasized that strengthening linguistic and cultural roots is essential for rebuilding India’s global intellectual influence.

Joshi’s remarks have sparked discussions on India’s evolving global identity and the relevance of historical narratives in contemporary discourse. His comments underline the contrast between India’s past achievements and present realities, while also calling for renewed focus on education, cultural revival, and knowledge systems to reclaim a leadership role on the global stage.

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