New Delhi, Feb 23 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday said it was time for India to "realize the potential of soft power" as an important strategy for external affairs and foreign relations.

Inaugurating the first international "Ramayana Mela" here, Modi said that "world affairs were no longer on one track".

"India should leverage its great traditions and culture in forging ties with countries around the world in a way that is deeper, more personal, and therefore, far more powerful," he said.

Recalling the days when a television serial based on the "Ramayana" was telecast and became very popular among all Indians, he said: "The story of Ramayana has message that remains relevant even today." 

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, along with other dignitaries, was also present on the occasion.