Previous Year Question
Which one of the following was the latest inclusion in the Intangible Cultural Heritage List of UNESCO?
Correct Answer: C
Detailed Solution
Garba Dance was the latest among the given options to be included in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The chronological order of the options is as follows:
Chhau Dance—2010
It is a dance tradition of eastern India.
Its three principal styles are Seraikella Chhau, Purulia Chhau and Mayurbhanj Chhau.
It enacts episodes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, local folklore and abstract themes.
Kumbh Mela—2017
It is a massive pilgrimage and religious congregation.
Ritual bathing in a sacred river is its central activity.
It is associated with Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik.
Durga Puja in Kolkata—2021
It is a community festival associated with the worship of Goddess Durga.
Image-making, rituals, music, art, craftsmanship and community participation are its major aspects.
Garba of Gujarat—2023
It was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List on 6 December 2023.
It became India’s 15th intangible cultural heritage element on the List.
Garba is a ritualistic and devotional dance performed during Navaratri and is associated with the worship of the goddess or feminine energy.
Dancers generally move in a circle around an earthen pot containing a lamp or an image of the goddess.
It promotes community participation and social and gender inclusivity.
Therefore, the correct chronological order is:
Chhau Dance (2010) → Kumbh Mela (2017) → Durga Puja (2021) → Garba (2023)