Endangered Languages in India – Seminar and Publication

A path breaking initiative was the organization of an “International seminar on Endangered Languages of India” to mark the silver jubilee celebrations of INTACH, on 22nd and 23rd October, 2009.  The aim of this seminar was to have discussions and talks about spreading awareness of the existence and dangers of loss of endangered languages, exchanging views and information on the present situation of the languages, ascertaining the place of minority and regional languages in education and... Read More

Research & Documentation of wooden block-makers in Pethapur, Gujarat

The ICH division commissioned Ms. Ritu Sethi, Chairperson of the Craft Revival Trust to research into the status of the wooden block print makers of Pethapur, Gujarat. These block makers form a nodal supply source for block printers in different parts of the country. However the tradition is undergoing many changes due to shifting economic and social patterns. The practitioners have actually moved from the original block-makers to the potter community. There are only a few elders of the... Read More

Documentation of traditional medicinal practises among Khasis, Meghalaya

A documentary film on “Traditional medicinal practises among the Khasis in Meghalaya” was commissioned by the ICH division from Prabhat Sawyan of Meghalaya. This is a very subject-oriented documentation of various herbs and medicinal plants. The film gives details of production of medicinal substances out of local raw materials, and the exact use of these... Read More

Documentation of Magic Mantras, Assam

The ICH division made an informative documentary film on witchcraft, magic, and mantras for therapeutic purposes in Assam or ancient Kamrup. Some areas of Assam are famous for black magic and other occult practises. It is also a centre for the “Shakti Cult” which is an integral part of this culture. The film showed the various uses of the mantras for curing ailments and tackling issues like theft, ill fortune etc. It also explores the collection of manuscripts on these subjects which are... Read More

Pilot Survey & Documentary film on ICH of Lahaul District, HP

The ICH division conducted a pilot survey to explore intangible cultural aspects of Lahaul sub division of HP. Lahaul is a cultural continuation of Ladakh. Hinduism and Tibetan Buddhism are mingled with local beliefs. A popular local deity who is believed to be the “protective deity” of Lahaul, a pre-vedic Himalayan god, Raja Gyepang, is not represented by any form but by his horse and the mountain sheep. The vernacular architecture is one of the most endangered aspects of this area as the... Read More