Anthropology
Open Access

Preserving Intangible Cultural Heritage: Safeguarding Our Cultural Identity

Priyanka Jian^{* *}Correspondence: Priyanka Jian, Department of Anthropology, Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India, Email:

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Description

Intangible cultural heritage refers to the traditions, customs, practices and knowledge that are passed down from generation to generation. This includes oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, festive events, and traditional craftsmanship. Intangible cultural heritage plays an essential role in shaping our cultural identity, providing a sense of belonging and promoting diversity. In this article, we will explore the significance of intangible cultural heritage and the challenges of preserving it.

Intangible cultural heritage is a living expression of our cultural heritage and is an integral part of our social and cultural fabric. It is through intangible cultural heritage that we learn about our ancestors, their beliefs, values, and traditions. This knowledge is passed down from generation to generation and it is our responsibility to preserve it for future generations.

Preserving intangible cultural heritage is a challenging task. Unlike tangible cultural heritage, such as artifacts and buildings, intangible cultural heritage cannot be easily preserved or protected. It is often transmitted orally or through practice, making it vulnerable to loss or modification. The transmission of intangible cultural heritage is also affected by factors such as globalization, urbanization, and social change, which can lead to the loss of traditional knowledge and practices. Oral practices are treasured and vital components of a culture and they can be regarded as traditions when they have a long history in that society and are widely shared among its people.

However, preserving intangible cultural heritage is essential. It helps to maintain cultural diversity and promote intercultural dialogue. It also contributes to the social, economic, and environmental sustainability of communities. By preserving intangible cultural heritage, we can promote social cohesion, foster creativity, and support local economies.

Efforts to preserve intangible cultural heritage have been ongoing for several decades. In 2003, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) adopted the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. The convention aims to promote the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage and recognize its significance to the cultural identity of communities.

The convention has led to the creation of various programs and initiatives to preserve intangible cultural heritage. For example, UNESCO has established a list of intangible cultural heritage in need of urgent safeguarding, which includes practices such as the traditional craftsmanship of Hahoe masks in the Republic of Korea and the traditional art of Sankirtana in Manipur, India. UNESCO has also created a register of best safeguarding practices, which highlights successful examples of preserving intangible cultural heritage.

In addition to these efforts, there are various ways in which individuals can contribute to preserving intangible cultural heritage. This includes participating in traditional practices and events, sharing knowledge and skills with younger generations, supporting local artists and artisans, and documenting oral traditions and practices.

Intangible cultural heritage is an essential part of our cultural identity and heritage. It provides a sense of belonging and promotes diversity. Preserving intangible cultural heritage is challenging, but it is crucial for maintaining cultural diversity and promoting intercultural dialogue. Through international initiatives and local efforts, we can safeguard intangible cultural heritage for future generations.