India Embraces Cultural Heritage with Zonal Centers Support
The National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) is being meticulously maintained by the Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA) under the Ministry of Culture. This central inventory consists of a diverse range of elements contributed by States and Union Territories. It is regularly updated in line with documentation submitted by regional entities and other stakeholders. This process also focuses on including marginalized, tribal, and indigenous traditions, thus ensuring a comprehensive representation of India’s rich cultural tapestry.
Empowering Artists through Guru Shishya Parampara
One of the notable initiatives promoting traditional art forms is the Guru Shishya Parampara Scheme administered by the Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs). Here, experienced artists mentor disciples in various art forms, including those that are becoming rare. Under this scheme, veteran Gurus receive a monthly remuneration of Rs. 7,500, Accompanists earn Rs. 3,750, and each pupil is compensated with Rs. 1,500, for a duration ranging from six months to a year for a particular art form. Recommendations for Gurus come from State Cultural Affairs Departments, ensuring that the artists are well-respected and qualified.
Fostering Cultural Heritage and Youth Engagement
The ZCCs play a crucial role in nurturing inter-generational knowledge transfer by creating performance platforms for budding artists. They actively involve educational institutions, youth groups, and local communities to enhance young people’s engagement in traditional arts. This approach has proven effective in revitalizing endangered art forms by fostering community pride and sustaining public interest in traditional cultural expressions. The Sangeet Natak Akademi, acting as the nodal agency for Intangible Cultural Heritage matters, is currently preparing a nomination dossier for the Chhath Mahaparv, a significant cultural festival. This dossier, developed with input from regional bodies and other stakeholders, has been submitted to UNESCO for consideration for inclusion in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity for the 2026–27 cycle.
Promoting Endangered Art Forms
Across the various Zonal Cultural Centres, initiatives aimed at youth have been pivotal in preserving endangered art forms. These initiatives encompass organizing Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsavs (RSMs), cultural festivals, and inter-state exchange programs that allow youth to experience a variety of traditional practices firsthand. Additional activities such as workshops, training camps, and craft demonstrations equip young participants with essential skills in folk music, dance, theatre, and crafts.
The ZCCs are also focused on digitally documenting their activities and performances, which includes recording endangered folk art forms. This documentation effort extends to publishing books, reports, and narratives that celebrate folklore and oral history, ensuring that these cultural treasures are preserved for future generations. This comprehensive effort to safeguard and promote India’s intangible cultural heritage was highlighted by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in a recent written response in the Rajya Sabha.
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