Culture as a factor of transnational integration: A case study of Sapta Sindhu
- Bihar Journal of Public Administration
- 21(1), Jan-Jun, 2024: p.215-228
The present paper provides an introduction about the geographical, socio-cultural and political significance of the region. The study examines the symbolic, culture and relative contribution of Sapta Sindhu region to the world and how it can unite the whole Indian subcontinent especially Pakistan because whole territory of Pakistan has culturally been the important part of Sapta Sindhu region and major part of Sindhu river flows in the Pakistani territory dividing it into the two parts. After the political and religious division of Sapta Sindhu has kept the two nations vieing each other. After the various treaties, meetings and agreements between two could not resolve the issues for seventy years of partition. Culturally rich land of Sapta Sindhu which can unite both nations has also been neglected and we forgot the significance of this region. The cultural Impact of Sapta Sindhu can be seen among both nations such as their dresses, music, heritage and foot items etc. The present study highlights the cultural similarities of the region and prospects of their integration. This paper introduces the geographical, socio-cultural, and political importance of the Sapta Sindhu region, emphasizing its symbolic and cultural contributions to the world. The study argues that the region holds potential to unite the Indian subcontinent, particularly India and Pakistan, given that Pakistan’s territory historically formed an integral part of Sapta Sindhu and hosts the major flow of the Sindhu River. Despite decades of treaties and negotiations since partition, political and religious divisions have kept the two nations in contention. The paper highlights how the rich cultural heritage of Sapta Sindhu—visible in shared traditions such as dress, music, food, and heritage—has been neglected, yet offers prospects for fostering integration and reconciliation between the two countries.- Reproduced
Sapta Sindhu, Geographical Significance, Socio-Cultural Heritage, Political Division, India-Pakistan Relations, Sindhu River, Cultural Integration, Partition, Treaties and Agreements, Regional Unity, Traditional Dress, Music and Heritage