HT Digital,
New Delhi, March 27: Gujarat’s Garba, a lively and traditional folk dance, has gained global recognition as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), placing it at the forefront of the world’s cultural stage. This acknowledgment underscores Garba’s deep cultural value, not only within Gujarat but also on an international scale.
Garba, originating in Gujarat, is a customary dance performed during the Navaratri festival, a nine-night observance dedicated to the worship of the Hindu goddess Durga. The dance involves rhythmic circular movements, accompanied by spirited music typically played on instruments like the dhol (drums), tabla, and others. Garba embodies themes of community, unity, and devotion, as participants unite in dance and celebration during Navaratri.
UNESCO’s recognition of Gujarat’s Garba as an Intangible Cultural Heritage signifies its role in promoting cultural diversity, fostering social cohesion, and safeguarding traditional art forms. It acknowledges Garba’s significance in passing down cultural values, rituals, and expressions across generations, enriching the identity and heritage of Gujarat and India’s broader cultural landscape.
This prestigious acknowledgment by UNESCO draws global attention to Gujarat’s vibrant cultural heritage and underscores the importance of preserving and promoting traditional art forms like Garba. It also creates opportunities for enhanced cultural exchange, collaboration, and appreciation of Gujarat’s cultural traditions worldwide.
Moreover, UNESCO’s recognition serves as a source of pride and motivation for communities involved in practicing and preserving Garba, encouraging them to continue their efforts in upholding and promoting this cherished cultural expression. It underscores the necessity for concerted efforts at local, national, and international levels to safeguard and promote intangible cultural heritage for future generations.
Gujarat’s Garba receiving official recognition as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO marks a significant milestone celebrating the vibrancy, diversity, and cultural significance of this traditional folk dance. It emphasizes the importance of preserving and promoting cultural traditions and underscores the role of cultural heritage in fostering mutual understanding, respect, and appreciation among communities worldwide.
