India is a land of varied culture, traditions, and customs that have been preserved and passed down from one generation to the next. These intangible cultural heritages form the bedrock of Indian society and are a reflection of its history and identity.
It is now recognized that traditional practices and cultural expressions contribute to the cultural diversity and enrich human creativity. In this light, India has taken an important step in preserving its intangible cultural heritage by inscribing 14 new elements in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
Let’s take a closer look at some of these elements and their significance:
1. Yoga – This ancient practice has been an integral part of Indian culture for centuries. It promotes physical and mental well-being and has gained popularity worldwide.
2. Puppetry – Puppetry, also known as ‘Kathputli’, is a centuries-old tradition in India. It involves the use of puppets made from wood, cloth, or leather to perform a story.
3. Kumbh Mela – Kumbh Mela is an important Hindu festival held every 12 years in four different locations in India. It is the largest gathering of people in the world and is celebrated on the banks of holy rivers.
4. Chhau Dance – Chhau is a form of tribal dance that originated in the eastern states of India. It involves the use of colorful masks and costumes and tells stories from Hindu mythology.
5. Sankirtana – This musical tradition is popular in the northeastern states of India. It involves the use of drums, cymbals, and other instruments to sing devotional songs.
All these elements and many more have been inscribed in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List to promote their preservation and safeguard them for future generations.
Apart from their cultural significance, these elements also contribute to the socio-economic development of the communities that practice them. For instance, the promotion of yoga has led to the growth of tourism in India. Similarly, puppetry and traditional art forms have become income-generating opportunities for many artisans.
In conclusion, with the inscription of 14 new elements in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List, India has taken a significant step towards preserving its cultural heritage. These elements not only represent the country’s rich history and tradition but also contribute to the socio-economic development of the communities that practice them. The need of the hour is to create awareness and promote the preservation of these intangible cultural heritages.
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