Part of: Rajasthan Gk set 4

Which dance form of Rajasthan is included in Intangible Cultural Heritage list of UNESCO?

Category: Rajasthan Gk

Hint: Consider the unique dance forms of Rajasthan and their cultural significance.

Correct Answer: C) Kalbelia Dance.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The Kalbelia Dance is a traditional dance form that originates from the Kalbelia community in Rajasthan, India. The Kalbelia community is known for their snake charming and traditional dance performances. The dance form is characterized by its fluid, snake-like movements and vibrant costumes, which are often adorned with mirrors and intricate embroidery. The dancers move gracefully, mimicking the movements of cobras, and the dance is accompanied by traditional music played on instruments such as the been (a long, wooden flute).

The Kalbelia Dance was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2010. UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list aims to recognize and safeguard cultural practices, expressions, and traditions that are passed down from generation to generation. The inclusion of the Kalbelia Dance on this list highlights its cultural significance and the need for its preservation.

Other traditional dance forms in Rajasthan include Ghoomar, Kachchhi Ghodi, and Kathputli Dance. Ghoomar is a folk dance performed by women, characterized by its circular movements and colorful attire. Kachchhi Ghodi is a horse dance performed by men dressed as horse riders, often accompanied by traditional music. Kathputli Dance, or puppetry, involves the manipulation of string puppets to tell stories and entertain audiences.

While these dance forms are significant to the cultural heritage of Rajasthan, only the Kalbelia Dance has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. This recognition underscores the importance of preserving and promoting the unique cultural expressions of different communities around the world.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Ghoomar is a traditional dance form of Rajasthan, but it is not included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Ghoomar is performed by women and is known for its graceful movements and colorful attire.
  • Option B: Khejari is not a dance form but a tree species native to Rajasthan. It is important for the ecosystem but not related to cultural heritage or dance forms.
  • Option C: Kalbelia Dance is the correct answer. It is a traditional dance form performed by the Kalbelia community of Rajasthan and was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2010. The dance is characterized by its snake-like movements and vibrant costumes.
  • Option D: Kathputli Dance, also known as puppetry, is a traditional art form of Rajasthan but is not included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. It involves the manipulation of string puppets to tell stories and entertain audiences.

Mnemonic: K for Kalbelia, K for UNESCO

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