Exploring India’s UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage: A Guide for UPSC Aspirants
India is known for its diverse and rich cultural heritage, which includes everything from art, music, dance, food to language, and more. The country has a total of 41 UNESCO World Heritage sites, which not only include tangible heritage but also intangible cultural heritage. As a UPSC aspirant, it is crucial to have an in-depth understanding of the diverse cultural heritage of India. This article aims to be a comprehensive guide that explores India’s UNESCO intangible cultural heritage sites.
What is Intangible Cultural Heritage?
Intangible cultural heritage refers to the living traditions, expressions, and practices that are inherited from our ancestors and passed on to future generations. It includes a wide range of diverse cultural practices and expressions that represent the cultural diversity of human civilization. Recognized by the United Nations, intangible cultural heritage is considered an essential part of our heritage and cultural identity. The UNESCO World Heritage sites in India recognize this and celebrate the vast diversity the country has to offer.
The UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Sites of India
The Kumbh Mela:
The Kumbh Mela is a religious festival that takes place every 12 years in four different locations across India. The festival is a gathering of millions of devotees who come together to take a holy dip in the sacred rivers of India. The festival is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO due to its significant symbolization of peace, dialogue, unity, and diversity.
Baul Songs of Bengal:
Baul traditions are a form of mystic expression that originated in Bengal. It is a blend of Sufi and Vaishnavaite traditions, which focus on the transcendence of human suffering through music and dance. The Baul singers use simple but powerful lyrics to connect with their audience and convey a message of peace, harmony, and love. The Baul songs of Bengal are recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO due to their unique cultural significance and symbolic representation of the Bengali culture.
The Traditional Art of Ramlila:
Ramlila is a dramatic performance that depicts the life of Lord Rama, one of the most beloved Hindu deities. The performance includes a cast of actors, musicians, and dancers who enact different scenes of the epic Ramayana. The performance takes place during the Hindu festival of Navratri, and it is a significant form of entertainment and cultural expression for the Indian community. The Traditional Art of Ramlila is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO due to its historical, cultural, and religious significance.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, exploring India’s UNESCO intangible cultural heritage sites is an exciting and meaningful journey that provides an in-depth insight into the diverse cultural practices and expressions of India. As a UPSC aspirant, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of India’s cultural diversity, as it plays a significant role in the country’s social, economic, and political development. Hence, by understanding these intangible cultural heritage sites, helps you prepare better for the UPSC exam.
