UNESCO Recognition

UNESCO Recognition: Uttar Pradesh government will apply for UNESCO recognition for five cities as intangible heritage and creative cities.

• About the Selected Cultural Cities (Elements): Perfume of Kannauj → Holi of Braj (Lathmar Holi) → Ganga Aarti in Varanasi → Glass Art of Firozabad → Black Pottery of Azamgarh (Nizamabad)
• Further Attempts: Efforts to include folk art and folk literature of Bundelkhand in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list.
• Research Areas:

o Kannauj Perfume: Deg-Bhapka method, historical importance, socio-economic impact, and traditional processes.

o Ganga Aarti of Varanasi: Historical, spiritual, and ritualistic significance.

o Holi of Braj: Emphasis on Lathmar Holi.

o Bundelkhand’s Folk Traditions: Alha singing and Rai dance.

o Crafts: Black Pottery of Azamgarh and Glass Industry of Firozabad.

• Historical Context & UNESCO Recognition: In 2017, Kumbh Mela recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity due to efforts of central and state governments.
• About United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO): Established as a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN).

o Objective: Establish peace through education, science, and culture.

o Role: Contributes to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) - Agenda 2030.

o Members: 193 member countries and 11 associate members.

o India joined: 1946.

o United States & Israel left: 2019.