India’s Soft Power Through Cultural Diplomacy’s Instruments of Performing Arts

Abstract

In the contemporary international system, soft power has gained increasing significance as states rely more on attraction than coercion to shape global outcomes. Within this context, culture functions as a key resource in international relations. This study examines India’s soft power through cultural diplomacy, with a specific focus on performing arts particularly classical dance, as instruments of diplomatic engagement. India’s long-standing civilisational traditions provide a strong cultural foundation that enables meaningful international connections.