UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in India: A Boon for UPSC Preparation
UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) is a broad term that encompasses practices, expressions, and traditions that are transmitted from one generation to the other in a community. These practices may include rituals, festivals, music, dance forms, crafts, and skills that are unique to a particular region or culture. India, with its diverse cultural heritage, has a vast range of intangible cultural practices that have been identified and listed by UNESCO.
Many candidates appearing for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination, which is one of the toughest exams in India, often neglect the importance of intangible cultural heritage in their preparation. However, the ICH of India can provide an edge to UPSC aspirants as it is tested in various parts of the exam, including the General Studies paper and the Essay paper.
In this article, we shall explore the significance of UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage in India for UPSC preparation.
The Importance of UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage for UPSC Preparation
The ICH of India is a rich source of information on the country’s social, cultural, and historical aspects. Aspirants can use this knowledge in various parts of the UPSC examination. It serves as a valuable tool for the following:
1. General Studies Paper
The UPSC syllabus for General Studies Paper I includes Indian Art and Culture. This section aims to test candidates’ knowledge of Indian heritage, culture, and history. The ICH of India, being an integral part of these aspects, is also included in this section.
For example, the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, an event of global importance, is included in UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. A UPSC aspirant can use this as an example to illustrate the importance of cultural heritage in India. Similarly, the various folk music and dance forms that are part of ICH can help in answering questions related to Indian art and culture.
2. Essay Paper
The Essay paper of the UPSC examination is a crucial section that can make or break a candidate’s chances of clearing the exam. The essay topics often reflect on issues related to social, cultural, and historical aspects of India.
The ICH of India provides a treasure trove of topics for aspirants to write about. For example, candidates can write about how the Kachi Ghodi dance of Rajasthan, which is listed in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is a reflection of Rajasthani culture and a source of entertainment for the masses.
Besides, a UPSC aspirant can also write about the impact of urbanization and globalization on intangible cultural heritage in India, or how the efforts of the government and communities are helping preserve cultural practices in the country.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the ICH of India is a rich source of information that can benefit UPSC aspirants in various parts of the examination. It provides an in-depth understanding of India’s diverse cultural heritage, which is an essential aspect of the UPSC syllabus. Candidates should make an effort to familiarize themselves with the various intangible cultural practices listed under UNESCO and use them to their advantage while preparing for the exam.
It’s worth noting that the significance of ICH is not limited to UPSC preparation. It’s an integral part of the world’s cultural heritage and should be acknowledged and preserved for future generations.
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