India–Pakistan relations: Efficacy of culture

Abstract

In the international relations, culture has been described as the most important component of a nation’s soft power. Today more than the coercive approach, promotion of a country’s cultural image (soft power) is gaining added popularity and acceptance in the larger international arena. India and Pakistan have originated from a common subcontinent but after the partition of 1947, they have an unstable relationship due to many unresolved issues. Although the two South Asian neighbours share a common history, literature and a strong cultural bond, they have time and again focused on the differences rather than making peace based on the similarities. Because the cost of conflict between India and Pakistan is very high, both countries have tried to find a common ground and reap the benefits of peace through bilateral dialogues and agreements. In such a situation, there is a great possibility of ‘culture’ playing a role as a connecting link between the two nations sans coercion and threat. In this context, this paper highlights the role of theatre in the India–Pakistan relations and its significance as a tool of diplomacy. It emphasizes the need for an increase in cultural contact between the two countries to gain mutual trust and reach a peaceful co-existence. In the backdrop of mistrust and political imbroglio between India and Pakistan at the official level, this study put forth the point that cultural diplomacy, especially theatre, can be an alternate medium for improving people-to-people contact and peace building between the two countries.