Culture And Memory

Garba - The Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

UNESCO has declared Garba, the dance of Gujarat, as “an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity” (ICHH), recognising it as an inherited “living expression”. This inscription helps ensure the viability of this tradition and inspires the community to continue with the knowledge, skills and traditions. Together with dance, the tradition has also associated arts and crafts which are used in costumes, props and rituals. We want to offer an immersive hands on journey through Gujarat's most cherished craft traditions associated with Garba through a training programme which will nurture creativity, celebrate heritage in an inspiring way and leave a lasting legacy. People will learn the ancient traditions behind each craft through workshops, whilst discovering the deep cultural significance of these arts. Outputs will be exhibited at the Bhavan Centre at a celebratory event. Elements of the project will be archived with Museum of Croydon and Brent Museum and Archives.