Documentation of Theyyam, Kerala

Theyyam, the religio-theatrical art form of Kerala, was taken up for an audio-visual documentation. Theyyam is a ritual dance form found in northern Kerala’s districts, Kannur and Kasargod, incorporating in its practice: myths and tales, dance and drama, music and rhythm. Each Theyyam has its own pattern and style of painting on the face and sometimes on the body. The documentation by Dr. V. Jayarajan, convenor of Kasargod chapter, took place between the months of December and June when... Read More

Research and collection for book on Manipur

The Division is overseeing the compilation and publication of a book documenting the many facets of Manipur. This book will feature a collection of essays describing the vast natural beauty, people and the vibrant living heritage of the state, including its history, dance, theatre, cuisine, sports, architecture, and natural heritage. The book, being funded by Sh. Hemant Katoch and edited by Sh. Pradip Phanjoubam, is in its final stages of... Read More

Book on Ayurveda

With funding from the department of AYUSH, Ministry of Health, ICH had commissioned Dr Sandra Albert to research and document the ancient health tradition of Ayurveda. This book, aimed at embassies, foreign visitors and anyone who seeks to learn more about Ayurveda, has been compiled by the author. It is a well researched work touching upon the origins and principles of Ayurveda, plants used for medicinal purposes, treatments available, and the positive effects of following Ayurveda in diet,... Read More

Documentation of dying performing art forms in Srikakulam district, AP

On a proposal of Shri D.V. Dharmarao, convenor of Srikakulam District, Andhra Pradesh, the ICH division provided fund for the documentation of ten endangered performing art forms. In order to extend meaning to such documentation, the ICH division interacted with the University of Hyderabad, department of Performing arts for inclusion of these forms in its curricula and living research by its students of dance to help in their revival and... Read More

Documentation of Folklore from Nagaland

Folktales, passed on from the elders to the younger generation were an important way of preserving cultural traditions and teaching the youth to understand the world around them; there is even a folktale to explain illiteracy amongst the Nagas, narrating how a script was given to them on a piece of animal hide that they ate when they were hungry. Folktales offered solutions to dilemmas and gave the community a sense of history and belonging. ICH collaborated with the Adivasi Arts Trust for this... Read More