BK Wings

Art and Culture Wing

All forms of creativity are directly linked to spirituality.

The art forms and cultural traditions of any community, organisation or country are a natural and direct reflection of its spiritual and moral values.

Art and culture can uplift and inspire, as well as passively reflect society.

Promotion of the spiritual empowerment of artists and performers is a necessary ingredient in building a world of beauty and harmony.

Art and culture are the mirror of a nation's character. The collective spirit or soul of a country, as well as its underlying values, are reflected in its living traditions of food and dress, in its celebrations, festivals and forms of art and entertainment. India is blessed with an ancient and beautiful culture-classical dance, music, and fine art which reflect divine and noble origins.

Today however, the fad of 'art for art's sake' has more popular appeal than the self- luminous masterpieces of traditional art and culture. As a consequence of global travel, international media and a widespread liberalisation of attitudes, modern cultures are negatively impacting our tried and true values. The hybrid culture that is emerging has neither roots, nor distinguishing features, nor cultural norms which give people a sense of belonging, continuity and heritage.

Creativity and spirituality are inextricably linked. Art is a creation of the human mind and when the mind of an artist is polluted by lust, anger, greed and ego, his or her art reflects this ugliness. Art, which reflects culture, then portrays vulgarity, obscenity and violence and promotes sensuality and promiscuity. Many artists today are ignorant of, and therefore devoid of, spirituality. This is why so many artists have become addicts-disturbed, unhappy and lacking in self-control.

Spiritual empowerment can restore art and culture to their original priceless value and beauty so that once again they become instruments for uplift-ment and inspiration. A spiritually empowered culture will be a culture based on spiritual and moral values and on traditions that promote happiness, harmony, and unity. The arts of such a culture will reflect only joy, truth, peace, love and beauty.

Music, songs, paintings, dance and drama have been used as a medium to communicate spiritual knowledge and have been featured in the activities and events of the Brahma Kumaris since the Institution's earliest days. The deepest spiritual truths touch the heart easily through such means, which is why art in its many forms is a very positive and powerful vehicle for encouraging personal and social transformation. Songs especially attract one's heart and convey deep, subtle feelings through a minimum of words.