Indian Community in Bahrain celebrate UNESCO approval of Garba as Cultural Heritage
TDT | Manama
The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com
A group of dancers from the Indian community showcased the Garba dance form at the iconic 200-year-old Shrinathji temple in Manama to celebrate the declaration of the Garba of Gujarat as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
The event was organised by the Thattai Hindu community in association with the Embassy of India and was attended by members of the Indian community, including the Gujarati community and Bahraini friends of India. Garba dance is performed traditionally every year at the Shrinathji temple during the nine days of the Navratri festival.
‘Garba of Gujarat’ has been inscribed in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity by UNESCO under the provisions of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage during the 18th meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage from December 5–9, 2023, in Kasane, Botswana.
Garba becomes the 15th Indian element to be added to this prestigious list, signifying its crucial role as a unifying force promoting social and gender inclusivity. Originating from Gujarat, the Garba dance is deeply rooted in ritualistic and devotional traditions, engaging people from diverse backgrounds.
It stands as a thriving and vibrant living tradition, uniting communities. Ambassador of India Vinod K. Jacob, who joined the celebration, congratulated the Indian community and said that it is a matter of pride and honour for India.
The Garba dance form strengthens community bonds, and the celebration at the historical Shrinathji temple stands as a testimony to the deep-rooted traditions between India and Bahrain. The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, during his state visit to Bahrain in 2019, also visited the Shrinathji temple. Yousuf Lori, Director of Information and Follow-Up, Capital Governorate, and Nabeej Ajoor, Director of A.R. & E.M. Ajoor & Co., also attended the event.
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