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Source: This post on Garba Dance Form has been created based on the article “UNESCO tag for garba: A dance for all” published in “Indian Express” on 9th December 2023.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 1 History, Art and Culture – Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
News: The article discusses the inclusion of Garba in the list of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List. It also highlights its distinct features.
Read in detail about Garba here.
Read about UNESCO Intangible Heritage Sites here.
Recently, Garba joined other Indian dances, such as the Kalbelia folk dance of Rajasthan, Chhau from eastern India, Sankirtana from Manipur and Mudiyettu from Kerala, on the UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. With this, it has become a representative of the richness of India’s performing art traditions.
It is an important part of every Gujarati celebration, from wedding to birth, and, most notably, the annual 9-day festival of Navratri. The worship of goddess Amba (a form of Durga) is a key part of this tradition.
What are Intangible Cultural Heritages?
These are the traditions or living expressions inherited from our ancestors and passed through generations as a way of life. These include oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, festive events, knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe and the knowledge and skills to produce traditional crafts.
What are the distinct features of Garba?
Symbolises the Cycle of Life: It is performed around a centrally lit clay lantern, which symbolizes both the metaphorical universal womb from which humanity emerged and the earth’s fertility. The ring formed by dancers and their revolutions around the lantern represent the cycle of time from birth to death and rebirth.
Participation of all ages and genders: It thrives due to its deep ties to community, where people of all ages, genders, skill levels, and faiths come together to dance.
Adaptability to Changing Times: Every new generation adapts dancing to its preferences. Garba has embraced both old songs and techniques alongside modern ones, shaping the dance to suit every generation.
Reports, in recent years, of performances being open to only Hindus, and assault for attending events, must be taken seriously. It is important to retain the inclusive character of Garba if this intangible heritage is to continue to thrive.
Question for practice:
India’s performing arts, especially its folk dances, carry unique underlying messages representing the history, culture and philosophy of this land. Elaborate.
