Which dance form of India has been inscribed into UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

NDA-I (GAT) Official Paper (Held On: 13 Apr, 2025)

Answer 1

The correct answer is Garba.

Key Points

Garba, a traditional dance form from Gujarat, India, was inscribed into UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2022.
Garba is performed during the Navratri festival, which celebrates the victory of good over evil and honors Goddess Durga.
This dance form symbolizes devotion, community bonding, and celebration, performed in a circular formation around a lamp or an image of the goddess.
Garba's inclusion in UNESCO’s list highlights its cultural significance and efforts to preserve and promote India's intangible heritage globally.

Additional Information

UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage:
- This list aims to ensure the protection of cultural traditions and practices that communities recognize as part of their heritage.
- India has multiple elements inscribed, including Yoga, Kumbh Mela, and now Garba.
Garba vs. Dandiya Raas:
- Garba is performed with hand and foot movements, while Dandiya involves the use of sticks.
- Both are popular during Navratri but differ in technique and presentation.
Navratri Festival:
- A nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, celebrated with immense zeal across India, especially in Gujarat.
- Garba is a central part of the Navratri celebrations.
India and Intangible Cultural Heritage:
- India has a rich tradition of diverse art forms, practices, and festivals recognized globally.
- Efforts are ongoing to document and preserve such traditions for future generations.