Discovering the 14 Intangible Cultural Heritage of India: A Journey through its Diverse Traditions
India, with its rich and diverse cultural heritage, boasts of 14 Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) elements recognized by UNESCO. These elements comprise of art forms, practices, traditions, festivals, and rituals that have been preserved and passed down from generations. In this article, we will take you on a journey through the 14 intangible cultural heritage elements of India, and explore the depth and significance of each one of them.
1. Yoga
Yoga, meaning union in Sanskrit, is a 5000-year-old physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in India. It involves breathing techniques, meditation, and various body postures that are performed to improve flexibility, strength, and mental health. Yoga is an integral part of Indian culture and has been recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2016.
2. Kumbh Mela
Kumbh Mela is a popular Hindu pilgrimage and one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. It is held once every 12 years in Allahabad, Haridwar, Nashik, or Ujjain, rotating in that order. Millions of people, including saints, devotees, and tourists, come together to take a dip in the holy river on specific dates that are believed to grant salvation. Kumbh Mela was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2017.
3. Kalbelia
Kalbelia is a traditional dance form performed by a tribe of snake charmers in Rajasthan. The dancers wear vibrant traditional clothes and perform acrobatic movements to the beats of traditional music instruments like dholak and been. Kalbelia dance was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2010.
4. Chhau
Chhau is a tribal martial dance form that originated in the eastern states of India such as West Bengal, Odisha, and Jharkhand. It involves vigorous body movements, acrobatics, and mock combat techniques. The dance is usually performed during festivals like Dussehra and Diwali. Chhau was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2010.
5. Ramlila
Ramlila is a religious play that portrays the life of Lord Rama, based on the Hindu epic Ramayana. It is usually performed during the festival of Dussehra and lasts for ten days. The play is performed by amateur actors in various cities and towns across India. Ramlila was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2008.
6. Vedic Chanting
Vedic Chanting is the recitation of ancient Sanskrit texts found in the Vedas, the oldest scriptures of Hinduism. The chanting is performed with precise pronunciation, intonation, and rhythm, and aims to evoke a sense of spiritual and cultural harmony. Vedic Chanting was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2008.
7. Mudiyettu
Mudiyettu is a ritual dance-drama performed in Kerala during the festival of Bhadrakali. The performance involves a mythological story of the victory of goddess Kali over the demon Darika. The dancers wear elaborate costumes and makeup to depict the characters in the story. Mudiyettu was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2010.
8. Koodiyattam
Koodiyattam is an ancient Sanskrit theatre tradition that originated in Kerala. It involves the performance of plays based on Hindu epics and mythological stories. The plays are performed by trained actors in elaborate costumes and makeup. Koodiyattam was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2008.
9. Chutka Nagpur
Chutka Nagpur is a tribal dance performed by Gonds, one of the largest indigenous communities in central India. The dance involves the use of sticks and is performed during festivals and social gatherings. Chutka Nagpur was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2018.
10. Nautanki
Nautanki is a popular form of musical theatre that originated in Uttar Pradesh. It involves the performance of short dramas with music and dance on social and moral themes. Nautanki was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2018.
11. Sankirtana
Sankirtana is a devotional song and dance ritual that originated in Manipur. It involves the singing and dancing of Vaishnavite hymns in praise of Lord Krishna. Sankirtana was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2013.
12. Ramman
Ramman is a ritual theatre tradition performed in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It involves the enactment of stories from the Hindu epic Ramayana, with actors wearing elaborate masks and costumes. Ramman was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2009.
13. Buddhist Chanting
Buddhist Chanting is a vocal and instrumental music tradition that originated in the monasteries of Ladakh, a region in the Himalayas. The chanting involves the recitation of Buddhist sutras and mantras with traditional instruments like the daman, the surna, and the drum. Buddhist Chanting was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2012.
14. Kalaripayattu
Kalaripayattu is a traditional martial art form that originated in Kerala. It involves various physical and mental exercises, including weapon training, body massage, and herbal treatment. Kalaripayattu was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2018.
In conclusion, India’s intangible cultural heritage is a testament to the nation’s diversity, cultural richness, and historical significance. These 14 elements are just some of the many traditions that have been passed down for generations and are an integral part of India’s identity. By preserving and promoting these cultural practices, we can keep them alive and ensure that future generations can discover and appreciate them as well.
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