IGNCA Entrusted with the Curation of the India Pavilion

India at World Expo Osaka: A Confluence of Culture, Commerce, and Compassion

Bharat Mandap: A Fusion of Ancient Cultural Heritage and Modern Progress

 New Delhi: At the ongoing World Expo in Osaka, Japan, the Bharat Mandap, curated by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), has emerged as one of the most popular attractions and secured a place among the top five pavilions. According to a review by Mr. Yamamoto-san, Deputy Pavilion Director and representative of the Japan Travel Bureau (JTB), the Indian Pavilion has been ranked among the top five alongside the United States, Italy, Japan, and France. This ranking is based on inputs collected from Expo officials, the general public, and Japanese social media users.

It is noteworthy that in previous World Expos, the curation of the India Pavilion was handled directly by the Ministry of Commerce. However, this time the responsibility has been entrusted to the Ministry of Culture, which in turn appointed the IGNCA to undertake this significant task. The Expo will continue until 13 October 2025.

Speaking on the progress of India’s participation at Expo 2025 Osaka, IGNCA Member Secretary Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi informed on Saturday that the India Pavilion reflects the nation’s ancient knowledge systems, modern aspirations, and global engagement. Strategically located in the ‘Connecting Lives Zone’, the Pavilion showcases both the depth of India’s civilisational ethos and its commitment to technological advancement and sustainable development.

In its true essence, the Bharat Mandap has evolved not only into a cultural exhibition space but also into a powerful instrument of India’s cultural diplomacy—its soft power—offering global audiences a glimpse into the nation’s diversity, richness, and innovation.

According to Dr. Joshi, this initiative, driven by the Ministry of Commerce under the guidance of the Ministry of Culture, is being realised through institutional collaboration between the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) and IGNCA. The Pavilion’s creative vision and profound cultural design were implemented by IGNCA within a remarkably short timeframe, reflecting both organisational efficiency and deep cultural sensitivity. Despite receiving the space allocation at a later stage, the IGNCA team coordinated closely with Japanese authorities to curate a dynamic and expansive cultural experience at the India Pavilion-one that highlights the nuances of India’s civilisational values. This effort has received wide appreciation across global platforms.

The Bharat Mandap features various dedicated sections on innovation, heritage, Ayurveda, ISRO, and sustainable development—effectively illustrating India’s journey from its subterranean treasures to the outer reaches of space. The Pavilion honours the past while simultaneously envisioning future possibilities.

In contrast to other pavilions with restricted entry and long queues, the India Pavilion offers a seamless experience with minimal wait time, allowing visitors to explore the space at their own convenience. Its magnificent exhibits, authentic Indian cuisine, and interactive cultural elements—such as Garba dance workshops, traditional costume displays, and live yoga sessions conducted by an Indian Acharya—are attracting enthusiastic crowds. Children and families, in particular, are enjoying this vibrant showcase. The colourful installations, photo-friendly corners featuring Himachali caps and handcrafted frames, have garnered widespread word-of-mouth praise and significant appreciation online. The India Pavilion has become a much-visited cultural destination, admired for its blend of warmth, creativity, and accessibility—all of which contribute to its acclaim.

Theme and Cultural Philosophy

At the heart of the Bharat Mandap stands the image of Padmapani Bodhisattva, the embodiment of compassion, inspired by the Ajanta cave murals. It offers a confluence of spiritual beauty and contemporary storytelling. Through symbolic elements like the Blue Lotus Façade, the Bodhi Tree Installation, and the Flowing Waters, IGNCA presents India’s eternal philosophical vision in a modern global context—guiding visitors through timeless messages of compassion, interconnectedness, dynamism, and transformation.

From the tranquil Lotus Courtyard to the vibrant Oneness Lounge, the Pavilion reflects the Upanishadic ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—“The world is one family.” It offers international visitors a meaningful encounter with India’s living heritage, underscoring inclusivity, dialogue, and spiritual harmony.

Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, IGNCA, remarked, “To represent India is to carry forward a legacy of thought, compassion, and achievement. This Pavilion is not merely a structure-it is a living experience, where tradition flows into innovation, and the eternal soul of India resonates with the world.”

It is worth noting that Expo 2025 Osaka—officially titled Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan—is a global exposition being held in Osaka, Japan, until 13 October 2025. The central theme of the event is ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives.’ More than 160 countries and 9 international organisations are participating, with an estimated 28 million visitors expected. Running until 13 October 2025, this exposition aims to redefine our world through future-focused pavilions and the showcase of cutting-edge technologies.