UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage – India’s Cultural Diplomacy and Global Recognition
This topic is important for UPSC Prelims GS Paper 1 (Art & Culture – UNESCO, Indian Heritage), Mains GS Paper 1 (Indian Heritage & Culture), and GS Paper 2 (International Relations). Questions can be framed on India’s intangible heritage, UNESCO conventions, and cultural diplomacy.
Introduction
Culture is not just about monuments, temples, or physical art forms – it also includes the living traditions, rituals, performing arts, festivals, and practices that communities pass down from one generation to another. To protect these traditions, UNESCO launched its Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) in 2003. India, with its vast cultural diversity, has played an active role in contributing to this list, and several of its traditions have been globally recognized. For UPSC aspirants, understanding this list is important as it combines heritage, international relations, and cultural diplomacy.
What is Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)?
According to UNESCO, Intangible Cultural Heritage refers to the “practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, and skills” that communities, groups, and individuals recognize as part of their cultural heritage.
Examples include:
- Oral traditions – folktales, proverbs, chants
- Performing arts – music, dance, drama
- Social practices & rituals – festivals, fairs, worship
- Traditional craftsmanship – handlooms, puppetry
- Knowledge about nature & universe – Ayurveda, yoga, food traditions
Unlike monuments (which are tangible heritage), intangible heritage is “living culture” that thrives only when practiced and preserved.
UNESCO’s Role in Safeguarding ICH
- UNESCO adopted the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
- Its primary goals are:
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- To safeguard intangible cultural heritage.
- To ensure respect for cultural diversity.
- To raise awareness at local, national, and international levels.
- To encourage international cooperation.
- The ICH Committee maintains three lists:
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- Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity – widely recognized traditions.
- List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding – practices at risk of disappearing.
- Register of Good Safeguarding Practices – innovative methods for preservation.
India’s Contributions to UNESCO’s ICH List
India, being one of the most culturally diverse nations, has 14 elements inscribed (as of 2025). These include:
1. Yoga
- Inscribed in 2016.
- Represents India’s ancient tradition of physical, mental, and spiritual discipline.
- Widely celebrated on International Yoga Day (21st June).
2. Kumbh Mela
- Inscribed in 2017.
- World’s largest congregation of pilgrims at Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain.
- Symbolizes India’s spiritual heritage and religious tolerance.
3. Ramlila
- Inscribed in 2008.
- A theatrical performance of the Ramayana, especially popular in North India.
- Preserves oral storytelling and folk theatre traditions.
4. Chhau Dance (Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal)
- Inscribed in 2010.
- A tribal martial dance blending storytelling, music, and combat moves.
5. Kalbelia Folk Songs and Dances (Rajasthan)
- Inscribed in 2010.
- Performed by the Kalbelia community, traditionally snake charmers.
- Known for fast rhythmic moves and vibrant costumes.
6. Nowruz
- Inscribed in 2016 (Multinational nomination including India).
- Persian New Year festival, celebrated by Parsi communities in India.
7. Durga Puja (West Bengal)
- Inscribed in 2021.
- A socio-religious festival symbolizing art, devotion, and community participation.
8. Koodiyattam (Kerala)
- Inscribed in 2008.
- Sanskrit theatre art form, one of the oldest theatrical practices in the world.
9. Mudiyettu (Kerala)
- Ritual theatre depicting the goddess Kali’s victory over Darika.
10. Traditional Brass and Copper Craft of Punjab (Thatheras of Jandiala Guru)
- Inscribed in 2014.
- Represents India’s ancient metallurgical skills.
11. Nawrouz (Parsis, India – part of multinational list)
12. Garba of Gujarat (Inscribed in 2023)
- A devotional dance performed during Navratri.
(The list is expanding, and aspirants should keep track of the latest updates before the exam.)
Global Significance of India’s ICH Recognition
- Cultural Diplomacy – Enhances India’s soft power globally.
- Tourism Boost – Festivals like Kumbh Mela and Durga Puja attract global tourists.
- Preservation of Traditions – Recognition brings awareness and protection measures.
- Community Pride – Helps communities safeguard their identity.
Challenges in Preserving Intangible Heritage
- Commercialization of traditional arts dilutes authenticity.
- Globalization threatens local traditions.
- Lack of documentation – Many traditions remain unrecorded.
- Declining practitioners – Younger generations shifting to modern livelihoods.
Government of India’s Efforts
- Sangeet Natak Akademi – Identifies and supports living traditions.
- Zonal Cultural Centres – Encourage folk arts regionally.
- Cultural Schemes – Financial aid to artisans, performers, and cultural events.
- Digital Archives – Efforts to preserve oral traditions through documentation.
Future Prospects
- Digital Preservation – Using AI and technology to archive performances and rituals.
- Community Involvement – Local communities must be active custodians.
- International Collaboration – Sharing safeguarding practices among countries.
- Education – Integrating folk art and traditions into curriculum.
Conclusion
India’s cultural identity is deeply rooted in traditions that go beyond monuments and artifacts. The recognition of its intangible heritage by UNESCO reinforces India’s soft power, global influence, and cultural pride. For UPSC aspirants, this topic not only enriches understanding of art and culture but also highlights how cultural heritage intersects with international relations and diplomacy.
