18th BRICS Summit: India’s ‘Soft Power’ Gains a Global Platform Through the Cultural Backdrop of the Ramanathaswamy Temple

India hosted the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12–13, 2026. During the summit, emerging economies deliberated on critical issues such as global governance, multilateralism, trade, technology, energy, and security. For India, this summit presented a significant opportunity to showcase its diplomatic priorities and global leadership.

Ramanathaswamy Temple Becomes a Cultural Highlight

The Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram served as the backdrop when Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the BRICS leaders. This was not merely a decorative display but a medium to showcase India's civilizational and cultural heritage on an international diplomatic stage. It exemplifies India's use of cultural diplomacy and soft power.

Religious and Historical Significance of the Ramanathaswamy Temple

Located on Rameswaram Island in Tamil Nadu, the Ramanathaswamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The temple is renowned for its vast corridors, pillars, and Dravidian architectural style. Beyond its religious significance, the temple represents a vital legacy of Indian art, architecture, and pilgrimage traditions.

BRICS and Inclusive Global Governance

The summit featured discussions on themes such as "Inclusive Global Governance and Multilateralism." Through BRICS, India has consistently advocated for more representative and equitable participation of developing and emerging economies in global institutions. This issue specifically pertains to reforming the UN Security Council, ensuring representation in global financial institutions, and strengthening the multilateral order.

Strategic Importance of BRICS for India

BRICS provides India with a platform to enhance economic, technological, energy, and strategic cooperation with key emerging economies. Its significance for India extends beyond mere economic collaboration; it is also linked to broader foreign policy objectives such as representing the voice of the Global South, promoting a multipolar world order, and maintaining strategic autonomy. During the summit, India also had the opportunity to hold bilateral talks with leaders from various nations.

Significance of ‘Soft Power’ for UPSC

Highlighting the Ramanathaswamy Temple against the backdrop of a high-level diplomatic event like the BRICS summit serves as a prime example of 'soft power diplomacy.' India strengthens its global image through Yoga, Ayurveda, Buddhist heritage, Indian languages, art, culture, and spiritual traditions. For UPSC aspirants, it is useful to understand this event through the lenses of cultural diplomacy, soft power, civilizational diplomacy, the Global South, and multilateralism.