India boasts a rich heritage of traditional crafts, with several recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The Thatheras of Jandiala Guru are a community of skilled metal crafters in Punjab, India. Their traditional craft of making brass and copper utensils was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2014. The craft involves hammering sheets of metal into vessels and requires careful control of temperature and technique.
https://ich.unesco.org/en/traditional-craftsmanship-00057
UNESCO recognizes traditional craftsmanship as a key domain of intangible cultural heritage. It encompasses the skills and knowledge involved in creating a wide variety of craft objects, from tools and clothing to ritual objects. The UNESCO Convention aims to safeguard the transmission of these skills to future generations.
https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/unesco-lists-50-iconic-textile-crafts
UNESCO released a list of 50 iconic heritage textile crafts of India, including Toda embroidery, Himroo weaves, Bandha tie and dye, and more. The article discusses their cultural significance and preservation strategies.
https://iasbaba.com/2022/10/50-iconic-indian-heritage-textiles-by-unesco/
This article details the UNESCO publication 'Handmade for the 21st Century', listing 50 heritage textiles and their histories, techniques, and challenges. Includes crafts like Chamba Rumal, Thigma, Jamdani, and Kalamkari.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Intangible_Cultural_Heritage_elements_in_India
Wikipedia’s comprehensive list of India’s UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage elements, including traditional crafts, performances, and rituals.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOA9iN9vrU8
This video showcases India’s intangible cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO, including traditional crafts like brass and copper utensil making and textile arts.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRj3Ihqq37c
A UPSC-focused breakdown of India’s UNESCO-listed intangible cultural heritage, including traditional crafts and performing arts.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fgru0egRKDg
This video highlights India’s newly proposed UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including cultural and craft-based heritage locations.
https://ich.unesco.org/en/video/34228
UNESCO’s official video documenting the traditional brass and copper utensil-making craft of the Thatheras of Jandiala Guru, Punjab.
https://ich.unesco.org/en/video/19645
UNESCO’s video on the Jamdani weaving tradition, showcasing its intricate techniques and cultural legacy.