Discovering the 14 Intangible Cultural Heritage of India – A Journey Through Tradition
India is a country steeped in culture, tradition, and history. It’s a land of splendor and diversity that boasts of a rich heritage that has been handed down from generation to generation. The country’s intangible cultural heritage is a testament to the remarkable creativity, skill, and expertise of its people. In this blog article, we take you on a journey to discover the 14 Intangible Cultural Heritage of India.
What is Intangible Cultural Heritage?
Intangible cultural heritage includes the practices, traditions, expressions, knowledge, and skills that communities, groups, and individuals recognize as a part of their cultural heritage. Unlike tangible heritage, intangible heritage is not in physical form and is difficult to preserve. India has listed 14 intangible cultural heritage elements that are an integral part of its culture.
14 Intangible Cultural Heritage of India
1. The Art of Making and Playing the Sitar: The Sitar is a stringed instrument that is widely used in classical Indian music. The art of making and playing the Sitar is a tradition that has been passed down for generations and is considered an integral part of the cultural heritage of India.
2. The Tradition of Vedic Chanting: Vedic chanting is a form of chanting that is based on the ancient Hindu scriptures called the Vedas. This tradition has been practiced in India for thousands of years and is considered an essential aspect of Indian culture.
3. The Tradition of Yoga: Yoga is a practice that originated in ancient India and is now popular all around the world. The tradition of Yoga includes various techniques and practices that promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
4. The Tradition of Koodiyattam: Koodiyattam is a form of Sanskrit theater that has been practiced in India for more than 2000 years. It is considered to be one of the oldest surviving forms of theater in the world.
5. The Tradition of Kalbelia: Kalbelia is a dance form that originated in Rajasthan and is now practiced all over India. It is popular for its fast-paced movements and colorful costumes.
6. The Tradition of Chhau Dance: Chhau dance is a tribal dance form that is popular in the eastern states of India. It is characterized by its acrobatic movements and vibrant costumes.
7. The Tradition of Sankirtana: Sankirtana is a form of devotional singing that is popular in the northeastern states of India. It involves singing, dancing, and playing musical instruments in praise of Lord Krishna.
8. The Tradition of Ramlila: Ramlila is a traditional play that is performed all over India during the festival of Navratri. It tells the story of the Hindu god Lord Rama and his battle with the demon king Ravana.
9. The Tradition of Kumbh Mela: The Kumbh Mela is a Hindu festival that takes place every 12 years in India. It is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, and millions of people come to participate in the festival.
10. The Tradition of Sankheda Furniture: Sankheda furniture is a traditional form of furniture-making that originated in the state of Gujarat. It is known for its intricate designs and bright colors.
11. The Tradition of Pattachitra Painting: Pattachitra is a form of traditional painting that originated in the state of Odisha. It is characterized by its intricate designs and bright colors.
12. The Tradition of Chitrakathi: Chitrakathi is a traditional form of storytelling that originated in Maharashtra. It involves the use of scroll paintings to tell stories from the Hindu epics.
13. The Tradition of Rangoli: Rangoli is a traditional form of art that is practiced all over India. It involves the use of colored powders to create intricate designs on the floor or walls.
14. The Tradition of Puppetry: Puppetry is a traditional form of entertainment that has been practiced in India for centuries. It involves the use of puppets to tell stories and entertain audiences.
The Importance of Intangible Cultural Heritage
Intangible cultural heritage plays a crucial role in preserving the cultural identity of a community or a nation. It helps in promoting a sense of pride, identity, and belongingness among the people. It also helps in promoting cultural diversity and tolerance.
Conclusion
India’s intangible cultural heritage is a testament to the remarkable creativity, skill, and expertise of its people. It highlights the importance of preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of a community or a nation. As a responsible citizen, it is our duty to appreciate and promote India’s cultural heritage and preserve it for the future generations.
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