Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Wednesday warned that a society which fails to pass on its history, stories of valour and cultural heritage to future generations gradually loses its self-confidence — and eventually begins to produce 'cockroaches' within those generations. He was speaking at the Maharana Pratap Jayanti celebration organised by the Maharana Pratap Foundation at Birla Auditorium, Jaipur.

What Shekhawat Said

Shekhawat described the occasion as far more than a commemorative event. He said it was an opportunity to pay tribute to the spirit of self-respect, freedom, cultural identity and resistance that, in his words, protected India from the darkness of subjugation. He argued that Maharana Pratap's struggle was not limited to Mewar alone but represented a broader battle against an expansionist imperial mindset — one in which ordinary citizens, tribal communities and even loyal companions such as Chetak played vital roles.

History Presented from a 'One-Sided Perspective'

The minister contended that, for decades, Indian history had been presented from a one-sided perspective, pushing chapters on resistance and bravery to the margins. Referring specifically to the battles of Haldighati and Dewair, he said Maharana Pratap's courage and later achievements had not received the recognition they deserved. He asserted that India's history is not a history of defeat but one of continuous resistance, resurgence and national pride.

Shekhawat cited figures including Bappa Rawal, Maharana Sanga, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Bajirao Peshwa and Guru Gobind Singh as personalities who sacrificed everything to preserve India's cultural consciousness and civilisational values.

The Digital Imperative

'History is not merely a collection of dates, wars and events. It is the collective memory of a nation,' Shekhawat said, adding that when a society's memories weaken, its self-confidence also diminishes. He stressed that revisiting and rewriting history on the basis of research and verified facts has become the need of the hour. In the age of artificial intelligence and digital technology, he argued, the information available online will shape the knowledge base of future generations — making it essential to ensure that authentic, research-based historical content is available in digital formats.

The Warning on Cultural Memory

Concluding his address, Shekhawat recalled how grandparents once connected children with history and cultural values through folk tales and traditional stories. He warned that if a society fails to transmit its stories of glory, does not instil pride in its heritage and allows its history to be forgotten, then 'cockroaches begin to emerge' within those generations. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including MLA Balmukund Acharya and former MP Ramcharan Bohra. Maharana Pratap Foundation Convener Prem Singh Banvas welcomed the minister at the outset.

The remarks come amid a broader national conversation on curriculum reform and the framing of Indian history in school and university textbooks.