Exploring the 14th Intangible Cultural Heritage of India: A Journey Through its Rich Diversity

The Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of India is a diverse and unique aspect of Indian culture that has been passed down through generations. These traditions, practices, and expressions are not tangible but are carried by people as an integral part of their lives. In 2003, UNESCO launched a project to protect and preserve ICH worldwide, and India has since nominated and successfully secured 14 items for the UNESCO Representative List of ICH of Humanity. Let’s take a closer look at these cultural practices and their significance in India’s diverse heritage.

1. Kumbh Mela

Kumbh Mela, a mass pilgrimage event that takes place every 12 years, is one of the most significant ICHs of India. It is a holy gathering of Hindu devotees who bathe in the rivers to cleanse their souls and attain Moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth). Kumbh Mela has been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of ICH of Humanity as a cultural practice that showcases India’s spiritual and cultural diversity.

2. Yoga

Yoga is a physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in ancient India over 5,000 years ago. It is a discipline that aims to bring harmony between the body and mind. Today, yoga has become a global practice with millions of people around the world practicing it. The significance of Yoga in India’s culture and its recognition as an ICH practice reflects its health benefits and role in promoting mindfulness.

3. Koodiyattam

Koodiyattam is a traditional Sanskrit theatre form that originated in Kerala, South India, and dates back to the 9th century. It is a highly stylized and complex art form that combines acting, music, and dance. The actors undergo rigorous training for over a decade to master the art of performance. With its rich history, Koodiyattam is recognized under UNESCO’s Representative List of ICH of Humanity, boosting the art form’s recognition within India and across the world.

4. Navroz

Navroz, also known as “Nowruz,” is a festival widely celebrated in Iran, India, Central Asia, and the Middle East to mark the beginning of the spring equinox. It is a time to celebrate the renewal of nature, new beginnings, and the triumph of light over darkness. The tradition of Navroz has been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of ICH of Humanity as a cultural practice that fosters intercultural dialogue and promotes peace.

5. Chhau Dance

Chhau dance is a traditional dance form originating from the eastern Indian states of Jharkhand, Odisha and West Bengal. It depicts tribal themes and aims to showcase the rich cultural heritage of these regions. Chhau dance is recognized as an ICH by UNESCO and is considered an essential cultural practice in India. The dance form is synonymous with the cultural identity of the people of these states, reminding us of the importance of preserving traditional art forms.

6. Sankirtana

Sankirtana is a traditional form of Manipuri music that originated in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur. It is a collective form of singing, dancing, and chanting devotional songs in praise of Lord Krishna. Sankirtana has been recognized as an ICH practice, and, over time, it has become an integral part of religious and social events of the Manipuri community.

In conclusion, India is a country that celebrates its heritage in every aspect of its culture, with the ICH enriching its diversity even more. The recognition of these 14 ICH practices by UNESCO underscores the importance of preserving these traditions, practices, and expressions that define India’s unique cultural identity. It is imperative to pass these traditions to future generations to appreciate the beauty and richness of India’s cultural heritage.