VP Releases Sudha Murty’s Book on Parliament Murals: India’s Deep Democratic and Civilizational Roots

The publication, brought out by the Lok Sabha Secretariat, offers a unique visual and narrative journey through India’s civilizational and democratic evolution.

The Vice President of India and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, today unveiled the book “Tides of Time: Bharat’s History through Murals in Parliament”, authored by Smt. Sudha Murty, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), at Samvidhan Sadan. The publication, brought out by the Lok Sabha Secretariat, offers a unique visual and narrative journey through India’s civilizational and democratic evolution.

Murals as Living Narratives of India’s Civilisation

Addressing the gathering, the Vice President described the book as a remarkable tribute to India’s timeless heritage, noting that the murals in Parliament are not merely artistic expressions but powerful visual narratives of Bharat’s historical and cultural journey.

He praised Sudha Murty for capturing the “timeless beauty and profound symbolism” of these murals and for making India’s rich history accessible to a wider audience across generations.

“The murals are not just art—they are stories etched in time, reflecting the spirit of our civilisation,” he said.

Bharat: The ‘Mother of Democracy’

Emphasising India’s deep-rooted democratic traditions, Shri Radhakrishnan highlighted that democratic practices in the country date back centuries.

• From Vaishali’s republican traditions in the north

• To the Kudavolai system of governance in southern India

These systems, he noted, reflect a long-standing tradition of dialogue, consensus, and inclusivity, reinforcing India’s identity as the “mother of democracy.”

Quoting Tamil poet Subramania Bharati, he underscored India’s enduring values of wisdom, dignity, charity, and cultural richness, which naturally foster inclusiveness and respect for diverse viewpoints.

Linking Heritage with Modern Governance

The Vice President also appreciated the integration of traditional symbols in the new Parliament building, crediting the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

He specifically referred to the ceremonial installation of the Sengol, a sacred symbol from the Chola dynasty, during the President’s address to a joint sitting of Parliament. He described it as a powerful bridge between India’s ancient civilizational ethos and modern democratic institutions.

Parliament: The Pillar of Democratic Values

Highlighting the role of Parliament, Shri Radhakrishnan said it embodies the core democratic principles of:

• Dialogue

• Debate

• Dissent

• Discussion

While stressing the importance of these elements, he noted that they must ultimately contribute to constructive decision-making in the national interest.

A Sweeping Journey Through 124 Murals

The book documents 124 mural panels in Parliament, offering a comprehensive overview of India’s historical continuum:

• From the Indus Valley Civilization

• To intellectual giants like Maharishi Valmiki and Chanakya

• Spiritual leaders such as Mahavira and Gautama Buddha

• Great rulers including Emperor Ashoka and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

• Cultural milestones like the Konark Sun Temple and the Bhakti movement

• Key moments of the freedom struggle, including the Dandi March and leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Subhas Chandra Bose

The Vice President noted that the book brings history alive by weaving together art, culture, governance, and national identity.

“Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”: A Guiding Vision

Referring to the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047, Shri Radhakrishnan reiterated the importance of balancing development (Vikas) with heritage (Virasat).

“The parliamentary murals embody this philosophy by anchoring progress in identity, continuity, and values,” he said.

Sudha Murty’s Contribution to Public Life

Commending the author, the Vice President highlighted Sudha Murty’s unique journey from the corporate world to social service and Parliament.

He described her as a figure of wisdom, humility, and deep social commitment, whose work consistently reflects a dedication to the larger public good. He also appreciated the efforts of the Lok Sabha Secretariat in publishing the book.

Unity in Diversity

Quoting Subramania Bharati once again, the Vice President emphasized that despite India’s diversity in language, region, and culture, the nation remains united in its purpose.

“Bharat has always been one and will remain one forever,” he affirmed.

Call for National Commitment

Concluding his address, Shri Radhakrishnan urged citizens to embrace the spirit of “Rashtra Pratham” (Nation First) and contribute to nation-building with integrity, dedication, and pride.

The event was attended by Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla, Union Ministers Shri J. P. Nadda and Shri Manohar Lal, Deputy Chairman Rajya Sabha Shri Harivansh, Members of Parliament, and senior officials from both Houses of Parliament.