India nominates 20 heritage specimens to UNESCO

Twenty specimens of Intangible Cultural Heritage of India have been nominated by the country this year for the first time to UNESCO for recognition.



These very clearly include the Kolam ritual of Tamil Nadu, where designs are drawn on the porches of houses, Nacha folk dance of Chattisgharh, Chatriyam music of Assam, and Sankirtan dance of Manipur and the veena tradition.

The Ministry of Culture and the state governments this year made special efforts and have been able to put forward 20 nominations to UNESCO this year. Jawhar Sircar Secretary (Culture) said at present there are only three recognized heritage specimens Kutiyattam which is the famous Sanskrit Theatre of Kerala, the tradition of Vedic Chanting and Ramlila- the traditional performance of Ramayana, which have been included from India.

We hope that all the nominations would be given due recognition.

Customs and Rituals in India

The diverse, wide culture of India makes it the most unique country in the world. India is a melting pot of different faiths and religions. Customs and rituals are an integral part of the Indian way of life.



These customs and traditions are surrounded by the boundary of religion, cast and creed. Customs and rituals of India are what attract many tourists to this myriad land.

One gets a glimpse of the customs and rituals in India as soon as one is welcomed in traditional Indian style. Even the Tourism Ministry, Government of India has launched the 'Atithi Devo Bhava' campaign to make people aware of India's rich cultural heritage and the philosophy of treating a tourist like God.

Indians are steeped into various customs and traditions. Right from the birth to death, there is hardly any occasion that does not have an elaborate ceremony.

Soon after the birth of a child, an elaborate ceremony to name the child takes place, which is marked by chanting of slokas and singing of hymns. Weddings are grand affairs in India, as they follow various customs and rituals.

So much so, many foreigners come to India to marry in Indian style. Rajasthan is the place that is most popular for royal weddings in India.

Even cremation is done according to rituals after one passes away. Taking a heritage tour to India is one of the best ways to know more about the fascinating aspects of Indian customs and rituals.

Festivals are other important occasions when one can see different customs and rituals followed by people. Plan a fascinating journey to the myriad land of different faiths and unique cultures with Heritage in India.