Yashika Goel
Garba of Gujarat, the traditional dance form has secured a coveted spot on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity by UNESCO. This announcement was made during the 18th meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Kasane, Botswana, held from December 5th to 9th, 2023.
Also Read: Navaratri: Key Differences Between Garba and Dandiya
UNESCO Recognition
Garba of Gujarat becomes the 15th element from India to join the prestigious UNESCO list, showcasing the cultural richness and diversity of the country. This recognition highlights the pivotal role of Garba as a unifying force.
Cultural Significance
Deeply rooted in ritualistic and devotional practices, Garba is celebrated as a dance form that brings people together from all walks of life. It fosters social and gender inclusivity, making it a vibrant living tradition that continues to thrive.
The Evaluation Body of the 2003 Convention praised India for submitting an outstanding dossier with exceptional supporting material. The nomination of Garba was lauded for championing unity in diversity and promoting social equality among diverse communities.
Global Visibility
This UNESCO inscription is expected to significantly elevate the global visibility of Garba, showcasing its authentic essence on an international stage. To mark this remarkable occasion, a troupe of eight dancers from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations showcased the Garba dance form at the meeting venue.
Celebratory Showcases
In celebration of this achievement, the Government of Gujarat is organizing curated ‘Garba’ events across districts in the state. This recognition not only acknowledges the cultural significance of Garba but also emphasises the importance of preserving intangible cultural heritage.
The UNESCO listing mechanism under the 2003 Convention aims to enhance the visibility of intangible cultural heritage, fostering awareness of its significance and promoting dialogue that respects cultural diversity. India’s election to the 24-Member Inter-governmental Committee (IGC) of the ICH 2003 Convention in 2022 for a tenure of four years reflects its commitment to playing a key role in cultural preservation on the global stage.
Alongside India, this year’s Intergovernmental Committee (IGC) comprised member states such as Angola, Bangladesh, Botswana, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Czechia, Ethiopia, Germany, Malaysia, Mauritania, Morocco, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia, Sweden, Switzerland, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.
