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Genesis in India
Beating Retreat is a centuries-old military tradition, at the sounding of retreat, the troops ceased fighting,
sheathed their arms and withdrew from the battlefield, returning to their camps at sunset.
The Beating Retreat Ceremony was started in the early 1950s when the government had asked Indian
army to design a ceremony for the display by the massed bands.
Bharat Parv Begins at Red Fort
Jan 27 2019
Bharat Parv is a five day event hosted as part of Republic Day celebrations. Bharat Parv organised at Red
Fort, Delhi aims to generate a patriotic fervour and promote the rich cultural diversity of the country.
Attractions of Bharat Parv
Bharat Parv showcases the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. The important attractions of Bharat Parv
are:
Replica of the Statue of Unity.
Gandhi Gram in which 10 painting artists will create paintings on the theme of Ideology of Mahatma
Gandhi.
Display of Republic Day parade tableaux
Performances by the Armed Forces bands.
Theme based State Pavilions where each state showcases its strength along with its tourism
products.
Daily cultural performances by North Zone Cultural Centre.
Bharat Parv has been organised by Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with other Central Ministries and
State Governments.
Hunar Haat Exhibitions Inaugurated in New Delhi
Jan 14 2019
Finance Minister Shri Arun Jaitley and Union Minority Affairs Minister Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi
inaugurated Hunar Haat exhibitions in New Delhi. Hunar Haat plays an important role in national and
international branding of the heritage of master artisans in India. Hunar Haat is aimed at “Development
with Dignity” of the artisans and craftsmen from the minority communities.
Benefits from Hunar Haat
Hunar Haat provides following benefits:
Projecting the talent of Indian artisans.
Build a credible brand of Indigenous Talent of Indian artisans and craftsmen.
Promoting the artisan and craftsmen heritage of India which had been marginalised for a long time.
Provides an Empowerment & Employment Exchange platform for master artisans and craftsmen.
Provides a platform to fulfil the commitments under “Make in India”, “Stand up India” and “Startup
India”.
Hunar Haat
Hunar Haat exhibitions are organised by the Ministry of Minority affairs under its USTAAD (Upgrading
the Skills & Training in Traditional Arts/Crafts for Development) scheme.
USTAAD scheme aims to preserve the heritage of traditional arts and crafts of minority communities,
build the capacity of traditional craftspersons and artisans and establish linkages of traditional skills with
the global market
Together with boosting the skill of craftsmen, weavers and artisans engaged in the traditional ancestral
work, USTAAD scheme aims to enhance the market access to the traditional arts and crafts , so that the
rich heritage of the minority communities are preserved for future generations.
PM releases commemorative coin and stamp on Sikh Guru Gobind Singh
Jan 13 2019
Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a commemorative coin and stamp on Guru Gobind Singh to mark
the 350th birth anniversary. On the occasion, Prime Minister Modi underlined the role of Guru Gobind
Singh in uniting the country through Khalsa sect.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 8
Commemorative Coin
Rs 350 commemorative Coin with the standard weight of 35 gram will have 50 per cent silver, 40 per cent
copper and 5 per cent each of nickel and zinc. The front side of the coin bears the rupee symbol and
denominational value ‘350’ in international numerals below the Lion Capital. The reverse side bears the
picture of “Takht Shri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib” in the centre and the years ‘1666’ and ‘2016’ in
international numerals will be on the left and right periphery of the coin.
Image: Commemorative Coin

Guru Gobind Singh
Guru Gobind Singh was the tenth and last of the human Gurus of Sikhism. He became Guru at the age of 9
in 1675 after the martyrdom of his father, the ninth Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur.
Guru Gobind Singh played a vital role in moulding the Sikh religion into its present shape, with the
institution of the Khalsa fraternity, and the completion of the sacred scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib.
Guru Gobind Singh lost his four sons died during his lifetime two in battle and two executed by
the Mughal army. Later he himself declared Guru Granth Sahib as the next and perpetual Guru of the
Sikhs before leaving his mortal body in 1708.
Khalsa Sect
After the martyrdom of his father, Guru Tegh Bahadur, Guru Gobind Singh had declared that he would
create such a Panth which would challenge the tyrant rulers in every walk of life to restore justice,
equality and peace for all of mankind. This led to the institution of the Khalsa Sect.
He infused the dual spirit of a saint and a soldier in the minds and hearts of the Khalsa sect followers to
fight oppression in order to restore righteousness (Dharma) and to uplift the down-trodden people in this
world.
He introduced the 5Ks, of the Khalsa: Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha( wooden comb), Kara( iron or steel bracelet
worn on the wrist), Kirpan (sword or dagger) and Kacchera (short breeches).
Sarva Bhasha Kavi Sammelan of AIR Inaugurated
Jan 13 2019
The Governor of Tamil Nadu inaugurated the Kavi Sammelan, a National Symposium of Poets in Chennai.
The poems were recited in the original language by the poets themselves and then they were translated to
Hindi and Tamil.
Sarva Bhasha Kavi Sammelan
Sarva Bhasha Kavi Sammelan of All India Radio (AIR) aims to provide a creative platform for national
integration and linguistic harmony through mutual interaction and coordinated presentation of the best
in contemporary poetry of all Indian languages.

This Kavi Sammelan made its beginning in 1956 and is one of its kind programme wherein 23 eminent
poets from 22 Indian languages come together on one stage to offer their creative best.
The Kavi Sammelan is the reflection of rich culture, literacy and shared heritage of Indian languages
All India Radio
All India Radio is the National Radio Broadcaster of India. Living up to its motto – ‘Bahujan Hitaya:
Bahujan Sukhaya’ it is striving to inform, educate and entertain the masses of the country. The All India
Radio broadcasts programmes in 23 languages and 179 dialects.
Supreme Court gives its nod for Chardham Project
Jan 12 2019
The Supreme Court has given its nod to Chardham Development Plan which connects the holy places of
Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath by all-weather roads.
What is the issue?
The construction of all weather roads in the environmentally critical zone of Himalayas was questioned in
the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The National Green Tribunal had cleared the Chardham Project and
had formed an oversight committee to monitor the environmental safeguards during the construction of
the project.
This order was questioned in the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court refused to stay the order of NGT
and had asked the Centre to file its affidavit on a plea seeking a stay on the order of the NGT.
Significance of Chardham Yatra
As per Hindu traditions, Char Dham Yatra opens the gates of salvation by washing away all the sins. The
term Chardham is believed to be coined by Shri Adi Shankaracharya, which means four abodes of God or
Holy Destinations.
The Yatra begins from Yamunotri, then the pilgrims head to Gangotri, thereafter to Kedarnath and finally
to Badrinath to complete the Chardham Yatra.
Yamunotri is the source of the sacred Yamuna River. According to Hindu Mythology, Yamuna was the
sister of Yamraj and she was promised by Yamraj that whoever takes the holy dip in the Yamuna River will
not be taken to Yamlok and they would attain salvation. Yamunotri is also the seat of Goddess Yamuna.
Gangotri i.e. Gomukh is the birth place of the Holy River Ganga. The stone on which King Bhagirath did
meditation to bring Goddess Ganga to earth is located near Ganga Temple in Gangotri. A temple dedicated
to Goddess Ganga is located in this pious area.
Kedarnath is one of the twelve jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and the temple is believed to be restored by Adi
Shankaracharya.
Badrinath is considered as the most sacred among the four shrines and is located on the left bank of the
Alaknanda River. The temple at Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the protector and preserver of the
divine Hindu Trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva). It is also believed that Adi Shankaracharya got freedom
from the process of reincarnation at Badrinath.
The Chardham Development Plan is the project of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Sanskriti Kumbh
Jan 12 2019
The Uttar Pradesh Governor Shri Ram Naik inaugurated the Sanskriti Kumbh at Prayagraj. The Sanskriti
Kumbh celebrates the conglomeration of Spiritual Consciousness and Cultural Heritage of India in the
main premises of Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. It is being organised by the Ministry of Culture, Government
of India under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative.
Celebrating the Diversity of India
The Sanskriti Kumbh is aimed at showcasing the vibrancy of India. The Sanskriti Kumbh will give a
chance to people to experience all the colours of Indian Culture at one place. This cultural extravagance
aims to promote and reconnect the people especially the youth with our magnificent and multifaceted
culture along with the opulence and its historical significance.
The cultural performances would display the legacy of India’s Spiritual and Mythological practices. The
performances will showcase the inclination of visitors towards devotion and Kumbh tradition. The folk
dances, representing states from East West North South India, will showcase the spirit of Unity in
Diversity that is Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.

Under the ambit of Sanskriti Kumbh, Rashtriya Shilp Mela is being organised to display handicrafts and
live demonstration of the skill by craftsmen.
Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj
Kumbh Mela is one of the oldest and largest congregation in the world. The Kumbh Mela is now part of the
UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural heritage for humanity in.
This year Kumbh Mela is being organized in the city of Prayagraj which is located at the confluence of the
Ganges, the Yamuna and Mystic river of Saraswati in Uttar Pradesh.
Rail Kumbh Seva Mobile App
Jan 7 2019
Rail Kumbh Seva Mobile App has been launched by the North Central Railway (NCR) to help the devotees
arriving in Allahabad for the Kumbh Mela.
About the Mobile Application
The Mobile Application ‘Rail Kumbh Seva Mobile App’ has been designed to provide critical and valuable
information to the devotees, tourists and other passengers who will visit Allahabad during the Kumbh
Mela period. The app will assist the devotees in the following ways:
The app will assist to navigate through the city and the mela grounds.
The app will also provide information regarding all the ‘Mela special’ trains that will be run during
the period.
The app will provide a link to the user to buy both unreserved and reserved train tickets.
The app will aid in knowing their current location and also aid in getting directions to reach railway
stations, the mela zone, major hotels, bus stations and other facilities within Allahabad city.
The app will also provide information about passenger amenities available at the stations like
parking lots, refreshment rooms, waiting rooms, book stall, food plaza, ATMs and train enquiry
Kumbh Mela at Allahabad
The Mythological story related to Kumbh is narrated below,
“During an ongoing war between the demons and the demigods for the possession of the elixir of
immortality (Amruth), few drops fell to earth at four places: Allahabad, Haridwar, Nasik, and Ujjain. At
each of the four places, Kumbh Mela is held. At Allahabad, the drop of Amruth is believed to be fallen near
Sangam and people assemble near the Sangam during Kumbh Mela to purge themselves of all sins by
taking a dip in the waters and attain Moksha (Salvation).”
The Kumbh Mela is held in these four places based on the astrological calculations it returns to each place
after a gap of twelve years.
The normal Kumbh Mela is held every 3 years, the Ardh (half) Kumbh Mela is held every six years at
Haridwar and Allahabad (Prayag) while the Purna (complete) Kumbh mela takes place every twelve years,
at four places Prayag (Allahabad), Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. The Maha Kumbh Mela is celebrated at
Prayag after 144 years (i.e. after 12 ‘Purna Kumbh Melas’).
Sabarimala Opens for Makaravilakku festival season
Jan 3 2019
The Sabarimala shrine has been opened for the annual 21-day annual Makaravilakku festival season.
Women Enters Sabarimala Shrine
The History was made on 2nd January 2019. Women on the menstrual age entered the Sabarimala shrine during this
season of Makaravilakku festival. Even though Supreme Court had struck down the century-old religious practice
which barred the entry of women in the menstrual age to the temple, the entry of women was not possible due to
widespread opposition by the religious groups. But during the early hours of 2nd January 2019 two women by name
Bindu Ammini, 42 years and Kanaka Durga, 44 years entered the adobe of Swamy Ayappa.
Makaravilakku
Makaravilakku is the religious practice performed by the tribes in the forest of Ponnambalamedu. Once
the Cyrus star (Makara Jyothi) appears in the sky during the day of the Makara Sankranti festival, the
tribes perform their rituals in a temple at Ponnambalamedu forest.

As part of the ritual, the tribes perform aarathi by lighting camphor and ghee in a vessel and circling
around the idol at the temple in the Ponnambalamedu forest 3 times. This Aarathi performed by the tribes
is referred to as Makaravilakku.
Monuments of national importance
Jan 3 2019
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has declared 6 monuments as Monuments of national importance
in 2018.
Monuments of national importance declared in 2018
The six monuments declared as Monuments as Monuments of national importance in 2018 are:
Old High Court Building in Nagpur, Maharashtra
Haveli of Agha Khan in Agra
Haveli of Hathi Khana in Agra
Neemrana Baori in Rajasthan’s Alwar district
Group of Temples at Ranipur Jharail in Odisha’s Bolangir district
Vishnu Temple in Kotali, Pithoragarh district, Uttarkhand.
Criterion for the declaration of Monument of National Importance
The Archaeological Survey of India declares a site as Monument of National importance based on the
following criterion:
The remains of an ancient monument
The site of an ancient monument
The land on which there are fences or protective covering structures for preserving the monument
Land by means of which people can freely access the monument
What is an Ancient Monument?
The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 defines Ancient Monument as
any structure, erection or monument, or any tumulus or place of interment, or any cave, rock-sculpture,
inscription or monolith which is of historical, archaeological or artistic interest and which has been in
existence for not less than 100 years.
Heritage conservation in Indian Railways
Jan 3 2019
The Ministry of Railways has initiated several steps to promote heritage conservation. The conservation
measures undertaken by railways include a revival of Steam Locomotives, up-keeping Hill Railways, a
special delegation of powers to Divisions for promoting Hill and Steam tourism, strengthening Railway
museums, conservation of built heritage, digitization of Railway Heritage and bringing it online for
universal access etc.
Measures undertaken for Heritage conservation
The measures undertaken for heritage conservation are:
Zonal Railways/Production Units are organising drives from time to time for identification and
preservation of Railway heritage assets like buildings, bridges, rolling stocks, documents,
photographs, artefacts, equipment, clocks, benches etc, which currently lying unnoticed or
overlooked at different locations.
A specific provision was made by the Ministry of Railways in the budget outlay for 2018-19 for the
revival of steam locomotives including restoration and procurement of spares.
A weekly regular timetabled train on steam traction has been made operational between Garhi
Harsaru and Farukhnagar.
Maintenance of five hill railways of India [Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), Nilgiri Mountain
Railway (NMR), Kalka Shimla Railway (KSR), Matheran Light Railway(MLR) and Kangra Valley
Railway (KVR)] are undertaken as per codal provision of Indian Railways and UNESCO Guidelines.
Special powers have been delegated to Divisional Railway Managers of five hill railways for
promoting tourism in these five hill railways.
Ministry of Railways had also organised a day-long event of heritage officers of Zonal Railways and
Production Units to give complete attention to the century-old rich heritage of Indian Railways and to
train them in heritage conservation approaches.

Postal Stamp dedicated to Nabin Chandra Das, inventor of Rosogolla launched in West Bengal
Dec 29 2018
A postal stamp dedicated to Nabin Chandra Das, inventor of Rosogolla was launched on the inaugural day
of the three-day festival, Bagbazar-O-Rosogolla Utsob marking the 150th year of its invention.
Bagbazar-O-Rasogolla Utsob
Bagbazar O Rosogolla Utsob, a three-day Rosogolla Utsav is being held at Bagbazar, Kolkata as a tribute to
Nabin Chandra Das, inventor of Rosogolla. The statue of Nabin Chandra Das was also unveiled during the
inaugural programme.
Tussle between Bengal and Odisha over Rosogolla
The battle over the ownership of Rosogolla started in 2015 when the government of West Bengal applied
for the GI tag for the sweet. Odisha contested the West Bengal claim by narrating Rosogolla has a 600-
year-old history in Odhisa.
Odhisa even cited mythological stories to claim that Lord Jagannath had offered kheer mohana to an
angry Goddess Lakshmi in order to appease her and this kheer mohana later became Pahala Rosogolla.
The GI authorities ruled in the favour of West Bengal. The Odisha has now applied to get GI tag for a
variant of Rosogolla, the Odishara Rosogolla.
Dwijing Festival begins at Chirang district of Assam
Dec 28 2018
An annual river festival, Dwijing Festival has begun on 27th December on the bank of River Aie at Chirang
district. It is the third edition of the festival. The festival was inaugurated by the Public Health
Engineering Minister of Assam, Rihon Daimary. About 15 lakh tourists are expected to participate in the
festival.
Dwijing Festival
Dwijing Festival is an annual river festival celebrated in the Bodoland Territorial Area Districts (BTAD)
region of Assam with various colorful events viz. ethnic trade and food festival, exhibition, games & sports,
river campaign & adventure and various culture programs to make it a centre of attraction for the visitors
as a New Year Festival.
The festival provides a platform of earning for the people in the region by putting in to focus the business
activities for the better economy generation through rural tourism. The festival also aims to provide help
to the flood victim families through charity generation and distribution.
River Aie (Mother)
River “Mother” originates from the Himalayan Mountains of Bhutan and flows through the Chirang and
Bongaigaon districts of Assam before joining the river Brahmaputra. The River Aie is the lifeline of the
region as about 30000 families in the region are dependent on the river for their daily livelihoods through
Crops, Fishing, Stone & Sand Collection and many other activities.
The River creates a massive attraction for many tourists (locals/visiting) for picnic and weekend activities
during the winter season and in summer the river creates massive damages to both the sideways due to
heavy rainfall resulting in loss of properties and lives of many families. Hagrama Bridge which is located
on this river is a centre of attraction.
Eminent Sitar Player Manju Mehta conferred Tansen Samman, 2018
Dec 27 2018
The Madhya Pradesh Government has conferred the annual Tansen Samman upon eminent Sitar Player
Manju Mehta for her contribution in the field of Hindustani Classical Music. The award was presented by
Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar on inaugural function of Tansen Music Festival in Gwalior.
Tansen
Tansen (earlier names Ramtanu Pande/Mohammad Ata Ali Khan) was the legendary court musician of
Akbar. His early music training was held in music school of Gwalior’s Raja Mansingh Tomar. He was a
disciple of Swami Haridas.
Tansen Samaroh (Tansen Music Festival)
The department of culture, Madhya Pradesh government organizes annual four day Tansen Samaroh near

the tomb of Tansen in Gwalior every year in December. The vocal and instrumental artists from all over
India come and deliver their performances.
Tansen Award
Tansen Award was instituted by Madhya Pradesh government to honour the individual artists with
significant contribution to Hindustani Classical Music. This award carries a cash prize of Rs. 2 Lakh along
with a memento. The first Tansen Samman was conferred upon Sitar maestro Ustad Abdul Haleem Jafar
Khan in 2000.
Manju Mehta
Veteran Sitar maestro Manju Mehta belongs to Bhatt family of Jaipur, which other eminent musicians
Shashimohan Bhatt and Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt come from. She has been a top artist at All Indian
Radio and has co-founded the Saptak School of Music in Gujarat.
PM Modi launches Paika Rebellion Chair in Utkal University
Dec 25 2018
PM Modi announced setting up of a Chair on the Paika Rebellion, in Utkal University, Bhubaneswar. He
also released a commemorative stamp and coin on the Paika Rebellion.
Paika Rebellion
The Paika Rebellion of 1817 in Odisha briefly shook the foundations of British rule in the eastern part of
India. Paikas were the peasant militias of the Gajapati rulers of Odisha and rendered military service to the
king during times of war while taking up cultivation during times of peace.
The British had established their sway over Bengal Province and Madras Province to the north and south
of Odisha and occupied Odhisa in 1803. The Gajapati Ruler of Odisha Mukunda Deva-ll was a minor then
and the resistance by Jai Rajguru, the custodian of Mukunda Deva-II, was put down brutally.
As British began consolidating their rule and started tinkering with the revenue system, they faced the
anger of the people of Odhisa. A few years later Paikas under Baxi Jagabandhu, the hereditary chief of the
militia army of the Gajapati King rose in rebellion by taking the support of tribals and other sections of
society in March 1817. Paikas attacked British symbols of power, setting ablaze police stations,
administrative offices and the treasury during their march towards Khurda, from where the British fled.
The Paikas were supported by the rajas of Kanika, Kujang, Nayagarh and Ghumusar and zamindars, village
heads and ordinary peasants. The Rebellion spread quickly.
British were initially taken aback and then tried to regain lost ground but faced stiff resistance from the
Paikas. There was a widespread suppression. Rebels fought a guerilla war till 1819 but were captured and
killed. Baxi Jagabandhu was finally arrested in 1825 and died in captivity in 1829.
The Paika Rebellion enjoys a cult status in Odisha. Children in Odhisa grow up with hearing stories of the
brave fight against the British.
India’s first music museum to be set up in Thiruvaiyaru
Dec 24 2018
Tamil Nadu has announced the setting up of country’s first music museum with assistance from the
Central government in Thiruvaiyaru which is the birthplace of Saint Tyagaraja, one of the Trinities of
Carnatic music. The other two of the Trinity are Muthuswami Dikshitar and Syama Sastri.
Saint Tyagaraja
Saint Tyagaraja was a renowned composer of Carnatic music. He has composed thousands of devotional
compositions, mostly in Telugu in the praise of Lord Rama, many of which remain popular today. He saw
the reigns of four kings of Maratha dynasty — Tulaja II (1763-1787), Amarasimha (1787-1798), Serfoji II
(1798-1832) and Sivaji II (1832-1855), but he served none of them.
Saint Muthuswami Dikshitar
Saint Muthuswami Dikshitar was a South Indian poet and composer. His compositions are noted for their
elaborate and poetic descriptions of Hindu gods and temples and for capturing the essence of the raga
forms through the vainika (veena) style that emphasises gamakas. His compositions are predominantly
in Sanskrit and he has also composed some of his Kritis in Manipravalam (a mixture
of Sanskrit and Tamil).
Saint Syama Sastri

Saint Syama Sastri was a musician and composer of Carnatic music and was the oldest among the Trinity
of Carnatic music. Even though he did not compose so many Kritis, his compositions are still well known
due to the literary, melodic and rhythmic proficiency observed in them. He composed in a more formal
form of Telugu which borrows heavily from Sanskrit and there are also a number of Kritis
in Tamil attributed to him. Most of his works propitiate the goddess Kamakshi.
4th edition of Kochi-Muziris biennale inaugurated
Dec 14 2018
Fourth edition of Kochi-Muziris biennale was inaugurated by Kerala Chief Minister at Parade Ground in
Fort Kochi, Kerala. The Biennale was curated by Anita Dube and become the first Biennale in world in
which participation of women accounts for half of the participating artists. The 108-day long event will
showcase 94 artists in 10 venues of the city. The Theme of the Biennale is – “Possibilities for a Non-
Alienated Life”.
Kochi Muziris Biennale
It is the largest contemporary art exhibition of India held in Kochi, Kerala. The event is the combined
effort of Kochi Biennale Foundation and government of India. The aim of the initiative is to bring artist
from around the globe and promote contemporary art. Contemporary artists Bose Krisnamachari and
Riyaz Komu proposed the state government the idea of Biennale on the lines of Venice Biennale. First
Kochi-Muziris Biennale began in December 2012.
Kochi Biennale Foundation
It is a non-profit charitable trust founded in 2010 for promoting art and culture educational activities in
India. It is the primary organization to host Kochi-Muziris Biennale. It also works towards the
conservation of heritage properties and upliftment of tradition art.
UNESCO adds Jamaican reggae, Georgian wrestling and Japanese rituals in coveted list of
intangible heritage
Nov 30 2018
UN cultural agency UNESCO has added six new elements viz. Jamaican reggae, Georgian wrestling and
Japanese ritual into its coveted list of “intangible heritage”. They were added at UNESCO’s
Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage meeting held in
Mauritius
Six new elements added in list are
Chidaoba: It is Georgia’s traditional wrestling. It combines elements of wrestling, music, dance and special
garments. It is part of Georgian folk dance and its practice encourages healthy lifestyle and plays an
important role in intercultural dialogue”.
Hurling: It is field game from Ireland. It dates back 2,000 years, features strongly in Irish mythology. It is
played by two teams using wooden “hurley” stick and small “sliotar” ball. It is considered as intrinsic part
of Irish culture and plays central role in promoting health and wellbeing, inclusiveness and team spirit.
Reggae: It is Jamaican music originating from marginalized groups, mainly in Western Kingston. It was
started out as voice of marginalized. But now it is played and embraced by wide cross-section of society,
including various genders, ethnic and religious groups.
Raiho-shin: They are Japanese rituals used to admonish laziness and teach children good behavior. In it
local people dress in outlandish costumes and visit houses as deities as part folk beliefs that deities visit
communities and usher in new year or season. By performing rituals, local people notably children have
their identities moulded, developsense of affiliation to their community and strengthen ties among
themselves.
As-Samer: It consists mainly of dancing and singing and practiced across many areas of Jordan. It is
performed on various occasions, most commonly during weddings. Its poetry forms are integral part of
the tradition, expressing feelings of joy, peace, intimacy and empathy among those in attendance.
Spring festive rites of Kazakhstan’s horse breeders: It marks end of the old and beginning of a new
annual horse-breeding cycle. It is rooted in traditional knowledge of nature and an age-old relation
between man and horse. The rites involve skills inherited from nomadic ancestors, adapted to meet

present-day conditions to ensure its continued viability.

UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage
This coveted list is made up of those intangible heritage elements that help demonstrate diversity of
cultural heritage and raise awareness about its importance. The list was established in 2008 when
Convention for Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage came into effect. It includes important
intangible cultural heritages worldwide. It has two parts viz. Representative List of Intangible Cultural
Heritage of Humanity and List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of urgent Safeguarding. From
India, 14 Intangible Cultural Heritages have been added into this list. They are Koodiyattam (Sanskrit
Theatre of Kerala), Mudiyett (theatre ritual of Kerala), Tradition of Vedic Chanting, Kalbelia (folk songs
and dances of Rajasthan), Ramlila (Traditional Performance of the Ramayana), Sankirtana (singing,
drumming and dancing ritual of Manipur), Ramman (religious festival and ritual theatre of Garhwal
Himalayas), Thatheras (Traditional brass and copper craft of utensil of Punjab), Chhau dance (classical
Indian dance originated in the eastern Indian states), Buddhist chanting of Ladakh (recitation of sacred
Buddhist texts in Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir), Yoga and KumbhMela.
International Gita Festival, 2018 to be held in Kurukshetra
Nov 28 2018
The International Gita Festival 2018 will be organised in Kurukshetra in Haryana from December 7 to 23,
2018. This year it is third year of this mega cultural event, where Mauritius is partner country and Gujarat
is the partner state. Gita festival will also be organised in Mauritius next February. The objective behind
this event is to spread the message of Gita to world.
International Gita Festival 2018
It is being organized to commemorate birth of ‘Srimad Bhagwat Gita’, the sacred scripture containing
invaluable advice of Lord Krishna that he proffered to Arjuna, third Pandava in battlefield of Kurukshetra
on first day of famous 18-day battle in Mahabharata. It is held mainly on 11th day on Shukla Paksha
(waxing phase of moon) of Margashirsh month (November – December) as per traditional Lunar calendar
i.e. Shukla Paksha Ekadashi day of Margashirsha month. It is jointly organized by Kurukshetra
Development Board, Haryana Tourism, District Administration and Information and Public Relations
Department, Haryana. On sidelines of this event, about 200 famous painters from across the country will
draw paintings on walls of Kurukshetra on the theme of the Mahabharata under the ‘paint-the-wall’
competition. Artists from India as well from Mauritius, Indonesia, Iran, Turkmenistan and Russia will
perform during the annual festival.
Bhagavad Gita
It is 700 verse Hindu scripture in Sanskrit that is part of Hindu epic Mahabharata. It is set in narrative framework of
dialogue between Pandava prince Arjuna and his guide and charioteer Lord Krishna. The Bhagavad Gita presents a
synthesis of the concept of Dharma, theistic bhakti, yogic ideals of moksha through jnana, bhakti, karma, and Raja
Yoga and Samkhya philosophy.
Government to set up first National Institute of Inter-Faith Studies in Punjab

Nov 20 2018
Union Government will set up first-of-its-kind institute of Inter-Faith Studies in Punjab to promote
brotherhood and diversity. It is being established as part of year-long activities to commemorate 550th
birth anniversary of first Sikh Guru and founder of Sikh religion Guru Nanak. The institute will be set up
on lines of teachings of Guru Nanak Dev ji who preached qualities of brotherhood, diversity and the
concept of unity in diversity. Government will engage experts and form committees to oversee and
finalise concept of this institute.
Guru Nanak dev
He was Nirguna Bhakti saint and social reformer. He was born at Rai Bhoi Ki Talvandi near Lahore in April
15, 1469 AD. He was first Sikh Guru and founder of Sikhism. The verses composed by him were collected in
Adi Granth, written in Gurmukhi script.
India International Cherry Blossom Festival in Shillong from Nov 14 to 17

Nov 14 2018
India International Cherry Blossom festival is scheduled to be held from November 14 to 17 in Shillong,
Meghalaya. This festival is the world’s only autumn cherry blossom festival. The festival is organised by
Government of Meghalaya’s Forest & Environment Department as well as by the Institute of Bioresources
& Sustainable Development (IBSD) in collaboration with Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).
Aim
The aim of the festival is to celebrate the unique autumn flowering of Himalayan Cherry Blossoms. The
Cherry Blossom tree flowers only for a short period in a year. The festival will showcase full pink and
white cherry blossoms found all along the roadside of the famous Ward Lake. Alongside, the festival will
also showcase the region’s food, wine and crafts in addition with several cultural events.
Strategic Importance – Japan’s Participation
The main highlight of the festival will be the exposition of Japanese cultural events and cuisine. Embassy
of Japan is a strategic partner for the festival. There will be several cultural events showcasing Japanese
cultural and cuisine. The festival in a way will act as a channel to deepen and strengthen the connections
with the Government of Japan.
The tradition of planting cherry blossoms, also called Sakura, was first begun by Japan. In fact, Japan has
been celebrating the Sakura Festival from the 3rd century and it continues till date.
Economic Importance
The cherry blossom festivals are being celebrated by around 28 countries across the world including India.
The other countries that celebrate this festival include Holland, United States of America, and South
Korea. This festival generates huge employment opportunities and generates a lot of revenue as it attracts
lakhs of visitors from across the world. Last year, the festival boosted the local economy of Meghalaya by
300%. The festival is also likely to promote sustainable tourism in the northeast.
Meghalaya-Biodiversity Hub
Meghalaya is the home to 5,538 species of fauna and about 3,128 species of flowering plants. It accounts for
18% of India’s total floral wealth. Also, Meghalaya is the home to the country’s only two species of true
apes.
Ladakh restoration project wins 2018 UNESCO Asia-Pacific award for Cultural Heritage
conservation
Nov 10 2018
The restoration of an aristocratic house project from partial ruin state in Ladakh undertaken by LAMO
(Ladakh Arts and Media Organisation) Center has won 2018 UNESCO Asia-Pacific award for Cultural
Heritage conservation in Award of Distinction category. LAMO is public charitable trust established to
articulate an alternative vision for the arts and media in Ladakh.
Key Facts
The restored structure is strategically located at the foot of Leh palace, contributes to continuity of
historic townscape of 17th century. Its recovery establishes precedent for conserving non-monumental
urban fabric of Leh Old Town. Under restoration project, LAMO had used salvaged and local building
materials and indigenous construction techniques and skillfully introduced modern amenities to assure
its ongoing use.
Other Category awardees
Award of Excellence: It was awarded to restoration project of early 20th-century Shijo-cho Ofune-
hoko Float Machiya in Japan. It celebrates Kyoto culture by safeguarding city’s endangered wooden
townhouse typology as well as iconic annual Gion Festival.
Award of Distinction: LAMO Center, Ladakh, India
Award of Merit: 5 Martin Place, Sydney (Australia); Aijing Zhuang, Fujian (China); Commercial
Bank of Honjo Warehouse, Saitama (Japan).
Honourable Mention: Hengdaohezi Town, Heilongjiang (China), Rajabai Clock Tower & University of
Mumbai Library Building, Mumbai (India), Ruttonsee Muljee Jetha Fountain, Mumbai (India).
New Design in Heritage Contexts: Kaomai Estate 1955, Chiang Mai (Thailand) and Harts Mill, Port
Adelaide, (Australia).

UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation

It was established in 2000. It recognizes efforts of private individuals and organizations that have
successfully conserved structures and buildings of heritage value in the region. It aims to encourage other
property owners to undertake conservation projects within their communities, either independently or by
seeking PPP (public-private partnerships).
United Nations Postal System issues special postal stamps to mark Diwali celebration
Nov 8 2018
United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA) has issued special stamps with Diyas lamps (special event
sheet) to commemorate India Hindu festival of Diwali. These stamps are available at UN headquarters
post office in New York, US and also online.
Key Facts
The special event sheet (stamps) issued by UNPA are in denomination of US $1.15. It contains ten stamps
and tabs featuring festive lights and symbolic lamps known as diyas. The background of sheet features
United Nations Headquarters building illuminated with message of “Happy Diwali” to celebrate the spirit
of the festival.
The description accompanying information about stamps mentioned that Diwali, also known as
Deepawali is joyous and popular festival of lights, which is celebrated in India and by followers of many
faiths across the world. It also said that during celebration clay lamps known as diyas are lit to signify the
victory of good over evil. The festival also symbolises start of new year for many communities.
Note: United States Postal Service (USPS) in October 2016 had launched commemorative stamp in honour
of festival of Diwali. It was issued after seven-years-long efforts and advocacy by Indian-American
community and several Congressional resolutions by influential American lawmakers such as
Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney.
United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA)
It is postal agency of United Nations. It issues postage stamps and postal stationery, denominated in
United States dollars for United Nations offices in New York, in Swiss francs for offices in Geneva and in
euros for the offices in Vienna. Postage rates charged are identical to those of the host nation.
Ministry of Culture releases National Museum Research Bulletin
Sep 18 2018
Ministry of Culture has released National Museum Research Bulletin Number 10: Special issue. The
bulletin was revived after gap of 16 years. It also has released Sindhu Ghati Sabhyata:Ek Parichay, a Hindi
version of An Introduction To Indus Valley Civilization which among the bestsellers at National Museum.
National Museum Research Bulletin
The bulletin has number of research paper that highlight collection, display and education aspect that
National Museum engages with. It has been illustrated by colored photographs, some of which belong to
reserve collection of national museum to make it appealing to wider audience.
The research bulletin will help to generate awareness about activities of National Museum. It will help to
renew interest of people and inspire them to engage in conversations about national museums pivotal role
in public sphere.
Sindhu Ghati Sabhyata : Ek Parichay
It is Hindi version of An Introduction To Indus Valley Civilization which among the bestsellers at National
Museum, New Delhi. It is co-authored by Dr. Sanjib Kumar Singh and Dr, Gunjan Srivastava and Rajesh
Kumar. This book throws light on the splendor of the Indus Valley Civilization. It will benefit students,
scholars, artists, historians, museum professionals and art lovers among other readers
Nepal-Bharat Maitri Pashupati Dharamshala inaugurated in Kathmandu
Sep 1 2018
Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with Nepal PM K P Sharma Oli inaugurated 400-bed Nepal-Bharat
Maitri Pashupati Dharamshala in Kathmandu, capital of Nepal. They handed over this dharamshala to
Pashupati Area Development Trust.
Nepal-Bharat Maitri Pashupati Dharamshala
It is rest house for pilgrims in Kathmandu, built with Indian assistance. It is located on banks of Bagmati

River. It has provisions to meet the requirements of pilgrims including dining hall, kitchen, family rooms
and multipurpose halls to meet the requirements of travellers and families on pilgrimage to
Pashupatinath Temple.
Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva (also known as Lord Pashupatinath, Nepal’s national
deity). It is one of the four most important religious sites in Asia for devotees of Shiva. It was built in the
5th century and later renovated by Malla kings. It largest temple complex in Nepal, it stretches on both
sides of Bagmati River which is considered holy by Hindus. Jyotirlinga at Pashupatinath is considered as
head over twelve Jyotirlinga (in India) which are different body parts. The main pagoda style temple has
gilded roof, four sides covered in silver and wood carvings of the finest quality. Temples dedicated to
several other Hindu and Buddhist deities surround the temple of Pashupatinath. The Pashupatinath
temple complex was inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage Sites’s list in 1979 as a cultural heritage site.
ICOMOS launches Kerala Heritage Rescue Initiative
Aug 23 2018
International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) launched Kerala Heritage Rescue Initiative to
assess damage to rich cultural and built heritage sites in flood-devastated Kerala. ICOMOS is global
monument conservation body.
Kerala Heritage Rescue Initiative
The initiative aims at setting up platform for emergency response to cultural heritage damaged by the
floods in Kerala. It also has set Facebook page to collect information on the damage to buildings, museum
collections, cultural artefacts, libraries, archives, and even intangible heritage.
Under this initiative, ICOMOS will assess damage and risks to rich tangible, intangible, movable and
immovable heritage that has been adversely affected by floods, including monuments, historic buildings,
museum collections and artefacts of important significance. It will also create heritage response team and
train its members to undertake damage assessment and emergency measures.
ICOMOS has also approached International Centre for Study of the Preservation and Restoration of
Cultural Property (ICCROM) to partner in post-disaster work. ICCROM based in Rome (Italy) is inter-
governmental organisation dedicated to preservation of cultural heritage worldwide through training,
information, research, cooperation and advocacy programmes.
Background
Kerala is endowed with natural beauty and is home to number of iconic forts, palaces and other heritage
buildings, which attract huge number of tourists every year. It is facing its worst floods in nearly century
due to heavy rainfall that has left 223 dead and forced over 10 lakh people out of their homes. The Central
Government has declared this calamity of ‘severe nature’.
Note: Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction calls for cultural heritage and its protection to help in
building resilience and enhance ability of the affected population to participate in its own recovery.
International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS)
ICOMOS is global monument conservation body (non-government organisation) dedicated to promoting
the application of theory, methodology and scientific techniques for conservation of architectural and
archaeological heritage across the world. It is also advisory body to UNESCO for cultural heritage, in
particular for implementation of World Heritage Convention. It was founded in 1965 in Warsaw (Poland)
as a result of the Venice Charter of 1964. It is headquartered in Paris, France.
International Buddhist Conclave 2018 held in New Delhi
Aug 23 2018
The International Buddhist Conclave (IBC), 2018 was held in New Delhi. It was inaugurated by President
Ram Nath Kovind. It was sixth edition of International Buddhist Conclave. Its theme was ‘Buddha Path –
The Living Heritage”.
Key Facts
The Conclave was organized by Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with State Governments of
Maharashtra, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Japan is ‘Partner Country for IBC-2018. It was held from 23rd to
26th August, 2018 at New Delhi and Ajanta (Maharashtra), followed by site visits to Rajgir, Nalanda and
Bodhgaya (Bihar) and Sarnath (Uttar Pradesh). It saw participation delegates from following 29 countries
including ministerial level delegation from Bangladesh, Indonesia, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. This edition of
conclave had religious and spiritual dimension, academic theme and diplomatic and business component.
Background
Union Ministry of Tourism has been organizing International Buddhist Conclave biennially. The earlier
Conclaves were organized in New Delhi and Bodhgaya (February 2004), Nalanda and Bodhgaya (February
2010), Varanasi and Bodhgaya (September 2012), Bodhgaya and Varanasi (September 2014) and in
Sarnath/Varanasi and Bodhgaya (October 2016). ASEAN countries were guest of honour during IBC, 2016.
Objectives of this conclave are
Showcase and project Buddhist Heritage in India.
Boost tourism to Buddhist sites in the country.
Cultivate friendly ties with countries and communities interested in Buddhism.
Buddha Path: It refers to eight great places of Buddhist Heritage (referred in Pali as Aṭṭhamahāṭhānāni).
These places are connected with important events of life of Buddha from the time of his birth,
enlightenment, reaching dhamma to suffering humanity, till he passed away (Mahāparinirvāna) at the age
of 80 years. These are living heritage that still continues to inspire millions of people to walk and find out
peace, happiness, harmony and solace.
Panini language laboratory inaugurated in Mauritius to promote Hindi
Aug 20 2018
Panini language laboratory was recently inaugurated at Mahatma Gandhi institute in Mauritius to
promote reading and writing Hindi amongst young and its further development. It was launched by
External Affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on the sidelines of 11th World Hindi Conference held in
Mauritius.
Panini language laboratory
Panini language lab aims to promote reading and writing Hindi amongst young generation and its further
development. It will serve as medium to generate more interest in learning Hindi amongst youngsters
thereby strengthening language. It has been established in Mauritius with support from Indian External
Affairs Ministry.
The lab has 35 computers and equipments along with advanced software of various Indian languages
installed by Indian IT professionals to aid students of junior, middle and high schools to imbibe new
techniques of language learning and getting them acquainted with four language mantras–hearing,
prounciation, reading and writing through easy and scientific ways.
Rs. 904.80 Lakhs received as part of CSR under National Culture Fund
Jul 25 2018
Ministry of Culture has announced that it has received Rs. 904.80 Lakhs for conservation and
maintenance work of historical monuments as contributions part of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
under National Culture Fund (NCF). It also has revenue collected through various sources like ticketing,
Parking, photography, filming, and from holding cultural events from selected centrally protected
monument which has been deposited in Consolidated Fund of India.
National Culture Fund (NCF)
NCF was established as Trust under Charitable Endowment Act, 1890 as funding mechanism distinct from
existing sources and patterns of funding for arts and culture in India. It aims at inviting individuals as well
as private institutions in the task of promoting, protecting and preserving India’s cultural heritage.
It is managed and administered by council headed by Union Culture Minister and decides the policies. Its
Executive Committee is headed by Secretary, Ministry of Culture which actualizes those policies. All
projects undertaken by NCF are completed within specified period in accordance with MoU signed by it
with concerned donor organization.
Union Government had granted one-time corpus fund to NCF, apart from this, there is no fund allocated
by to. It receives contributions and voluntary donations as endowments from many other sources.
Donations and contributions to NCF are eligible for 100% tax deduction under Income Tax Act, 1961
subject to limits and conditions prescribed.
BSE’s iconic Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers secures trademark

Jul 18 2018
Stock exchange major Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has secured image trademark for its iconic building,
Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers located on Dalal Street in Mumbai, Maharashtra under Trade Marks Act, 1999.
With this, Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers joins elite club of distinguished structures around the world that
have secured trademark rights.
Significance: Henceforth no one can use images of the Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers for commercial
purposes without consent from BSE or paying it licensing fee. Violators are liable to be prosecuted under
Trade Marks Act, 1999.
Key Facts
BSE’s Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers serves as barometer of Indian economy. It is 28-floor building and was
bulit almost 10 years, completed in 1980. At the time of its completion, it was the tallest building in India.
Initially it was known as BSE Towers and was later renamed after late chairman of BSE, Sir Phiroze
Jamshedji Jeejeebhoy. BSE was founded in 1875. It began as small group of brokers who functioned under
a banyan tree on Dalal Street.
Trademark
Trademark refers to graphical representation of goods or services to make it distinguishable from others.
It can be words, symbols, sound, colours, shape of goods, graphics representation or packaging etc. It
protects owner against unfair competition, prevents damage to reputation of owner and consumer
welfare.
In India, trademarks are governed under Trademarks Act, 1999 ( it deals with precise nature of rights one
can acquire in respect of trademarks), under aegis of Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP),
Ministry of Commerce. The implementing body is Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks.
Mumbai’s Taj Mahal Palace hotel was first building in India to acquire image trademark under Trademark Act of
1999 in June 2017. Other iconic structures (builings) in the world that have received trademarks are Empire
State Building, New York, USA; Eiffel Tower, Paris, France; Opera House, Sydney, Australia etc.
17th World Sanskrit Conference held in Vancouver, Canada
Jul 9 2018
The 17th World Sanskrit Conference was held at Vancouver, Canada from 9th July to 13th July, 2018. It
was inaugurated by Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar. The purpose of this
conference was to promote, preserve and practice Sanskrit language all over world by the people.
Key Facts
The World Sanskrit Conference is being held in various countries across the globe once in every three
years under the auspices of the International Association of Sanskrit Studies. So far it has been held thrice
in India. This year, more than 500 scholars and delegates from over 40 countries participated in this
conference and exchanged their knowledge by presenting papers on various subjects followed by
discussions from amongst the members.
Special panel discussion were held on over dozen topics like History & Education of Women in Vedic
Literature, Mimamsa Beyond the Yagasala, Sanskrit Buddhist Manuscripts, The Yuktidipika Forging Place
for Sankhya, Research on Gargiyajyotisa and Introducing Bhagavata Purana Commentaries. Over 500
papers on various themes were presented during the 5-day conference.
Mumbai’s Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Buildings declared World Heritage site by UNESCO
Jul 1 2018
Two building clusters of Victorian Gothic and Art Deco architectural styles in Mumbai, Maharashtra were
jointly inscribed in UNESCO World Heritage List. The decision was taken during 42nd session of UNESCO
World Heritage Committee (WHC) in Manama, Bahrain. This recognition will push country’s financial
capital high on global cultural map.
Recognised Structures are
This is first world heritage site that flaunts combination of 19th Century Victorian Gothic structures and 20th
Century Art Deco buildings. The ensemble of two building clusters recognized from Mumbai consists of 94
buildings primarily of 19th century Victorian Gothic revival and early 20th century Art Deco style of
architecture.
Victorian buildings of Mumbai that have earned recognition, forms part of larger Fort precinct and are
situated to east of Oval Maidan. These public buildings, include Old Secretariat (1857-74), University
Library and Convention Hall (1874-78), Bombay High Court (1878), Public Works Department Office (1872),
Watson’s Hotel (1869), David Sasoon Library (1870), Elphinstone College (1888), Prince of Wales Museum
(now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya), Maharashtra Police Headquarters, and NGMA
(National Gallery of Modern Art). The buildings of Art Deco structures that have earned recognition
includes building of first row of Marine Drive, Regal and Eros Cinemas, Ram Mahal along Dinshaw Wacha
Road, Cricket Club of India and Buildings of Backbay Reclamation scheme.
Key Facts
This is third such honour for Mumbai after Elephanta Caves and majestic Victoria Terminus (rechristened
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station) which had earned coveted tag in 1987 and 2004
respectively. With this, Mumbai has equal number of World Heritage sites as Delhi, which has three —
Red Fort, Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb.
With this, the count of World Heritage Sites in India has now risen to 37, of which 29 are cultural, seven
natural and one mixed site. It makes India sixth ranked country in the list of world heritage properties. With
five sites, Maharashtra has maximum number of world heritage sites in India, including Ajanta and Ellora
caves in Aurangabad and Mumbai has three.
42nd session of World Heritage Committee: Four sites added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List
Jul 1 2018
The 42nd session of World Heritage Committee (WHC) meeting of United Nations Educational, Scientific
and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) held in Manama, Bahrain has inscribed four cultural sites on the
World Heritage List. These four cultural sites are Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensemble of Mumbai (India),
Sassanid Archaeological Landscape of Fars region (Iran), Hidden Christian Sites in Nagasaki Region (Japan) and
Sansa, Buddhist Mountain Monasteries in Korea (South Korea).
Key Facts
Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensemble of Mumbai: These two ensembles bear testimony to the phases
of modernization that Mumbai has undergone in course of the 19th and 20th centuries. Mumbai’s
Victorian ensemble includes Indian elements suited to climate, including balconies and verandas. Art Deco
edifices are found in cinemas and residential buildings, having blend of Indian design with Art Deco
imagery, creating unique style that has been described as Indo-Deco.
Sassanid Archaeological Landscape of Fars region: They are eight archaeological sites situated in three
geographical parts in southeast of Fars Province of Iran viz. Firuzabad, Bishapur and Sarvestan. These
fortified structures, palaces, and city plans date back to earliest and latest times of Sassanian Empire (from
224 to 658 CE). These sites bear witness to influence of Achaemenid and Parthian cultural traditions and
of Roman art, which had significant impact on architecture and artistic styles of the Islamic era.
Hidden Christian Sites in Nagasaki Region: It is located in north-western part of Kyushu Island. The 12
components of the site consist of 10 villages, Hara Castle and cathedral, built between the 16th and 19th
centuries. Together they reflect earliest activities of Christian missionaries and settlers in Japan. These
sites also bear unique testimony to cultural tradition nurtured by hidden Christians in Nagasaki region
who secretly transmitted their faith during period of prohibition from 17th to 19th century.
Sansa, Buddhist Mountain Monasteries in Korea: They are Buddhist mountain monasteries located
throughout southern provinces of Korean Peninsula. They are spatial arrangement of seven temples that
comprise site, (established from 7th to 9th centuries), present common characteristics that are specific to
Korea– “madang” (open courtyard) flanked by four buildings (pavilion, Buddha Hall, lecture hall and
dormitory). They contain large number of individually remarkable structures, objects, documents and
shrines. These mountain monasteries are sacred places, and have survived as living centres of faith and
daily religious practice.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The World Heritage Sites are sites selected by UNESCO, having cultural, historical, scientific or other form

of significance and is legally protected by international treaties The list is maintained by international
World Heritage Programme administered by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee. The committee
comprises of 21 UNESCO member states which are elected by UN General Assembly.
Each World Heritage Site included in the list remains part of the legal territory of the state where it is
located. But inclusion of sites in the list by UNESCO is in interest of the international community to
preserve each site. Presently, Italy with 50 sites is home to the greatest number of World Heritage Sites.
International Yoga day: June 21
Jun 22 2018
The 4th International Yoga day was celebrated on June 21, 2018 across the world to raise awareness
worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga. The theme this year was “Yoga for Peace”. The day’s
celebration in India were led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Dehradun, Uttarakhand. He was
joined by joined thousands of volunteers, who performed Yoga asanas in the lawns of Forest Research
Institute (FRI), Dehradun.
International Yoga Day (IYD)
The idea of celebrating the International Yoga Day was pitched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at
United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2014. Later in December 2014, UNGA
unanimously (endorsed by record 175 member states) adopted India-led resolution (69/131) to observe 21st
June as International Day of Yoga.
This resolution was adopted under agenda of UN’s ‘Global Health and Foreign Policy’. The date 21st June
was selected because it represents one of the two solstices and is the longest day in Northern Hemisphere
(summer solstice) which has special significance in many parts of the world. The first International Yoga
Day (IYD) was celebrated across the world on 21 June 2015.
Yoga
Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word yoga derives
from Sanskrit which means to join or to unite, symbolizing union of body and consciousness. Yoga if it is
practiced by all on daily basis in the early morning has numerous health benefits. The benefits of Yoga
include increased muscle strength and tone, increased flexibility, improved respiration, energy and
vitality. It also helps to maintain balanced metabolism, reduces weight, improves cardio and circulatory
health and improves athletic performance. It was inscribed in the representative list of Intangible
Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in December 2016.
Mauritius to host 11th World Hindi Conference
Jun 11 2018
Mauritius is going to host 11th World Hindi Conference (विश्व हिंदी सम्मेलन) in its capital city
Port Lois from August 18-20, 2018. It will be organised by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government
of India in association with Government of Mauritius. The theme of the Conference will be “Vaishvik Hindi
Aur Bharatiy Sanskriti“.
Key Facts
The conference is aimed at providing common platform to several Hindi scholars, writers and laureates
from different parts of the world to contribute the language. Its venue will be Swami Vivekanand
International Convention Centre, Pailles Mauritius. The conference will cover both classical and modern
elements of Hindi and will see participation delegates and scholars of Hindi from all over the world.
World Hindi Conference
The World Hindi Conference is major event organised every three years by MEA to increase the popularity
of Hindi globally. The first conference was held from 10 to 12 January 1975 in Nagpur, Maharashtra and
was inaugurated by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Since then, ten such Conferences have been held
in different parts of world. In the first conference, then Prime Minister of Mauritius Seewoosagur
Ramgoolam was Chief Guest and it was attended by 122 delegates from 30 countries. In remembrance of
the first conference, every year 10th January is being observed as World Hindi Day. The 10 edition of
World Hindi Conference was held in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh (India) in 2015 with the theme of “Hindi
Jagat-Vistar and Sambhavnaye”.

Taj Declaration to Beat Plastic Pollution adopted in Agra

Jun 3 2018
With an aim to make 500-meter area around Taj Mahal litter free and phase out single use plastic, Union
Minister Mahesh Sharma administered a pledge to Agra Residents.
The pledge called “Taj Declaration to Beat Plastic Pollution” was made in the presence of United Nations
Environment Program (UNEP) Executive Director Erik Solheim and UNEP Goodwill Ambassador Diya
Mirza. The declaration came ahead to the World Environment day, June 5.
Well before the declaration was undertaken, workshops were conducted to deal with problem. The major
focus of the workshop is to curb littering around the 17th century monument. Short term and Long term
plans are worked up on.
Minister Mahesh Sharma highlighted that India and the whole world is facing a huge problem of pollution
caused by the use of plastic. He said that the message of ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’ is meant not just for Agra
residents but to the whole country.
The UNEP representatives and Goodwill Ambassador expressed their happiness that all the agencies came
together for a noble cause of beating plastic pollution. The Environment day to be celebrated on June 5 has
a slogan of ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’.
4th International Yoga Day Celebrations main event to be held in Dehradun
May 31 2018
The Union Ministry of AYUSH has announced that main event of 4th International Yoga Day celebrations
(IDY-2018) will be held on 21 June 2018 at Dehradun, capital city of Uttrakhand.
Key Facts
The event is going to be Mass Yoga Demonstration that will attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Three places- Forest Research Institute (FRI), Gorkha Training Centre (GTC) and Maharana Pratap
Stadium have been identified for the event. On this occasion AYUSH Ministry is also planning to give two
Yoga Awards known as PM Yoga Award to national and international participants.
International Yoga Day (IYD)
The idea of celebrating the International Yoga Day was pitched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the
United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2014. Later in December 2014, UNGA
unanimously adopted India-led resolution to observe 21st June as ‘International Day of Yoga’. This
resolution was adopted under agenda of UN’s ‘Global Health and Foreign Policy’. The date 21st June was
selected because it represents one of the two solstices and is the longest day in Northern Hemisphere
which has special significance in many parts of the world. The first International Yoga Day (IYD) was
celebrated across the world on 21 June 2015.
Bangladesh Bhavan inaugurated at Vishwa Bharti University in Santiniketan
May 26 2018
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina inaugurated
Bangladesh Bhawan at Vishwa Bharti University in Santiniketan, West Bengal. Bangladesh Bhaban in
Santiniketan will house museum and library. It has been divided into four zones. Zone I is dedicated to
pre-historic period of undivided Bengal. Zone II includes chronicle phases of the language movement,
Zone III is dedicated to 1971 India-Pakistan (Bangladesh Liberation) War. Zone IV will educate visitors
about Rabindra in Bangladesh.
Visva Bharati University
Visva Bharati is public central university located in Santiniketan, West Bengal. It was founded by
Rabindranath Tagore on 23 December 1921 who called it Visva-Bharati, which means communion of the
world with India. Until independence it was a college but after independence, it was given status of
university and was renamed Visva-Bharati University in 1951. Prime Minister of India is Chancellor of the
University. Some of its renowned alumni includes Nobel-winning economist Amartya Sen, globally
renowned filmmaker Satyajit Ray and leading art historian, R. Siva Kumar. It is West Bengal’s only central
university.
May 18: International Museum Day

May 19 2018
The International Museum Day is observed on May 18 across the world to raise awareness on how
important museums are in the development of society. The 2018 theme was ‘Museums and Hyper
Communication – New Approaches and New Public‘.
Significance of theme
Hyperconnectivity term was invented in 2001 to design multiple means of communication, such as face-
to-face contact, email, instant messaging, telephone or Internet. This global network of connections is
becoming more complex day by day, diverse and integrated. In the hyperconnected world, museums join
this trend being inherent part of their local communities, their cultural landscape and their natural
environment.
Background
International Museum Day was instituted in 1977 by International Council of Museums (ICOM). The
objective of day is to raise awareness of museums as an important means of cultural exchange,
enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, cooperation and peace among peoples.
International Council of Museum (ICOM)
It is the main and only organisation of museums and museum professionals with global scope, committed
to promotion and protection of natural and cultural heritage, present and future, tangible and intangible.
It was created in 1946 and is headquartered in Paris, France. It serves as a network of museum
professionals (35,000 members in 137 countries) acting in wide range of museum- and heritage-related
disciplines.
International Buddhist Conference held in Lumbini, Nepal
Apr 30 2018
International Buddhist Conference was held in Lumbini, Nepal on 29 and 30 April 2018 to commemorate
2562nd Buddha Jayanti. The theme of the conference was ‘Lumbini Nepal: The birthplace of Lord Buddha
and the fountain of Buddhism and world peace’.
Lumbini is birth place of Gautama Buddha, founder of Buddhist religion. Lord Buddha was born in sacred
garden of Lumbini during 6th century BC and had attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, (now in Bihar,
India) and gave his first sermon in Sarnath and died in Kushinagar.
Key Facts
The basic objective of conference was to disseminate teachings of Buddha and spread messages of
nonviolence, brotherhood, co-existence, love and peace to international community. It also aimed to help
to propagate and enhance the importance and the glory of Lumbini in the international arena.
Representatives from 16 countries including US, Japan, India, China, Indonesia and Sri Lanka attended the
conference. Buddhist scholars from various countries also presented their papers for discussions during
the conference.
At end of the conference, 10 point Lumbini Declaration was adopted. It includes issues such as interfaith
dialogue, infrastructure development, connecting Buddhist attractions in Nepal and India, and
implementing Greater Lumbini Area Master Plan.
PHDCCI, Indian Yoga Association sign MoU to promote cultural tourism in Krishna Circuit
Apr 30 2018
The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) and Indian Yoga Association (IYA) have signed
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate interaction and cooperation between two
organisations to promote wellness, spiritual and cultural tourism in Krishna Circuit.
Krishna Circuit
Government is trying to promote Krishna circuit as major tourist attraction under Swadesh Darshan
Scheme. It is named after Lord Krishna and is centered on him. Under it, 12 destinations spread across five
states have been proposed. They will be developed on principles of high tourist value, competitiveness and
sustainability in an integrated manner. The destinations covered are Gujarat: Dwarka; Rajasthan:
Nathdwara, Jaipur and Sikar; Uttar Pradesh: Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, Gokul, Nandgaon and
Govardhan; Odisha.

Key Facts
Under this MoU, PHDCCI and IYA have joined hands to provide holistic tourism experience to domestic
and international travellers looking for some spiritually invigorating and cultural experiences. PHDCCI
has been frontrunner in the wellness, spiritual, knowledge and health sectors. It is committed to bringing
about effective changes in management, innovation and proactive development of strategies and
strengthening linkages for advancement through partnerships with like-minded organisations,
GI tag for Telangana’s Adilabad dokra, Warangal Dhurries
Apr 24 2018
Chennai based Geographical Indication Registry has awarded Geographical Indication (GI) Tag to two
more craft forms from Telangana viz. Adilabad dokra and Warangal Dhurries. Adilabad Dokra is an
ancient bell metal craft and Warangal Dhurries is a popular traditional cotton rug.
Adilabad Dokra
It is form of ancient bell metal craft practiced by Woj community native to Adilabad district of Telangana.
They use ancient casting technique called cire perdue (lost wax casting technique), a technique wherein
duplicate metal sculpture is cast from an original sculpture.
The 100-odd families are currently, involved in creation of a hereditary crafts. The craftsmen mostly
indulge in creation of metal casting products like idols of local deities, dancing figures, bells, jewellery,
statues and many other decorative items. Apart from these, they also makes figures of animals and birds,
and jewels.
Warangal Dhurries
Dhurries is popular traditional thick cotton rug in which weavers create beautiful patterns and dye them
using vegetable colours, which are washed in flowing water after the printing process. Currently, there
are more than 2000 weaving community members present in Kothawada, Warangal in spinning Dhurrie.
The products are exported mainly to UK, Germany along with few other European and African countries.
Geographical Indication (GI)
GI tag is name or sign used on certain products which correspond to specific geographical location or
origin. It is used for agricultural, natural and manufactured goods having special quality and established
reputation. These goods and products having tag are recognised for their origin, quality and reputation
and gives it required edge in the global market. It also ensures that none can use their name, giving them
exclusivity. The registration of a GI is valid for 10 years after which it needs to be renewed. Violation of GI
tags is punishable offence under law.
The purpose of GI tag enables stakeholders to authenticate their production while earning a premium and
derive an improved livelihood. GI is covered as element of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under Paris
Convention for Protection of Industrial Property. At international level, GI is governed by WTO’s Agreement
on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). In India, GI tag Geographical Indications
of Goods (Registration and Protection Act), 1999 governs it. This Act is administered by Controller General
of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks, who is also Registrar of Geographical Indications.
April 18: World Heritage Day
Apr 18 2018
The World Heritage Day is observed every year across world on April 18. Observance of day aims to spread
awareness importance of protecting and preserving various sites around world that have achieved world
heritage status and having outstanding universal values. This year theme of the day is “Heritage for
Generations”, emphasizing on inter-generational transfer of knowledge.
Background
The World Heritage Day was announced by International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in
1982. It was approved by General Assembly of UNESCO in 1983, with an aim of enhancing awareness
about importance of cultural heritage, monuments and to conserve them. ICOMOS was established on
principles set in Venice Charter, also known as 1964 International Charter on Conservation and
Restoration of Monuments and Sites. There are total 36 (1 mixed, 7 Natural and 28 Cultural) UNESCO
World Heritage Sites in India having special cultural or physical significance.

8th Theatre Olympics concludes in Mumbai

Apr 9 2018
The eight edition of Theatre Olympics concluded in Mumbai, Maharashtra after glorious run of 51 days
across 17 cities of India and showcasing rich heritage and culture across length and breadth of the
country. It was inaugurated by Vice President Venkaiah Naidu in February 2018 at the majestic Red Fort
in New Delhi.
Key Facts
The 8th Theatre Olympics was organised by National School of Drama (NSD) under Ministry of Culture.
The theme of the festival was – “Flag of Friendship“. The 51-day event had brought together around
25,000 artists from India and across the world. It witnessed 450 shows from more than 30 countries
performed across 17 cities such as across Indian during festival.
The 8th Theatre Olympics was biggest international theatre festival held in India for first time. It staged
more than 400 plays and hosted 78 allied events including 34 Living Legend series, 29 Master Classes,
seven Interfaces, six national and international seminars and two workshops across 17 cities. Besides,
about 600 ambience performances and 250 youth forum shows were also held during the nationwide
event.
The Theatre Olympics
The Theatre Olympics is an international festival that brings together finest productions of well-known
theatre practitioners from around the world. It was established in 1993 in Delphi, Greece as an initiative of
noted Greek heatre director Theodorus Terzopoulus. Greece was the first country to host Theatre
Olympics in 1995. Since then it was held in Japan (1999), Russia (2001), Turkey (2006), South Korea (2010)
and China (2014). The 7th edition of mega carnival of theatre was held in Poland in 2016.
Walmiki and Malhar: 2 unknown languages discovered
Apr 8 2018
Linguist from University of Hyderabad have discovered two endangered languages Walmiki and Malhar
predominantly spoken in remote regions of Odisha. They were discovered by Prof Panchanan Mohanty as
part of activity of Centre for Endangered Languages and Mother Tongue Studies. The professor had
collected some data and did preliminary analysis of these languages and published paper in proceedings of
XX Annual Conference of Foundation for Endangered Languages, UK.
Key Facts
Walmiki: It is spoken in district of Koraput of Odisha and on bordering districts of Andhra Pradesh. It is
an isolate language and does not belonged to particular family of languages. Its name is interesting and
indicative as speech of the community claims to be descent from great Indian saint-poet Valmiki, who is
credited to have written one version of epic Ramayana.
Malhar: It is spoken in a remote and isolated hamlet about 165 km away from Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Now
it is spoken by community consisting of about 75 speakers including children. It belongs to “North
Dravidian subgroup of Dravidian family of languages. It has close affinities with other North Dravidian
languages like Malto and Kurux spoken in Jharkhand, West Bengal and Bihar.
Background
India has been termed sociolinguistic giant and linguists paradise by various scholars across the world.
Though Central government has made effort to document endangered tribal and minor languages, there
are many languages which are unknown to world and are waiting to be discovered and documented.
Madhubani railway station in Bihar gets makeover with Mithila paintings
Apr 8 2018
Madhubani railway station got complete makeover with Mithila paintings. The makeover project was
unique initiative of Indian Railways to experiment with local artists voluntarily painting works in short
span of two months. More than 225 artists, 80% of them women, volunteered to paint station free of cost.
The total wall area of railway station covering area more than 14,000 sq ft has been fully painted with
various themes under traditional Mithila painting style.
Mithila painting
Mithila painting is folk painting practiced in Mithila region of India (especially Bihar) and Nepal. It is also
known as Madhubani paintings which mean ‘forest of honey’. It has been mentioned in ancient Indian
texts like Ramayana.
It originated in small village known as Maithili in Bihar. Initially, women from village drew paintings on
freshly plastered mud walls of their home as illustration of their thoughts, hopes and dreams using fingers
and twigs forming two dimensional imagery using paste of powdered rice. With time, it became part of
festivities and special events like marriage. It was made from paste of powdered rice. It also used colours
derived from vegetables and plants. Now they are also painted on cloth, handmade paper and canvas.
The central themes of Mithila paintings are based on Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Its main theme is
supported by traditional geometric patterns. Some of main attributes of these paintings are double line
border, abstract-like figures of deities, ornate floral patterns, bold use of colours and bulging eyes and
jolting nose of faces of figures.
The various styles of Mithila painting include Bharni, Tantrik, Katchni, Godna, and Kohbar, which were
historically painted only by women from the upper strata in caste system, who used to make them on mud
walls on special occasions.
Mithila painting has been accorded the coveted GI (geographical Indication) status as it has remained
confined to compact geographical area and skills have been passed on through centuries, but content and
the style have largely remained same.
Ministry of Culture organises Madhavpur Mela in Gujarat
Mar 26 2018
The Union Ministry of Culture for the first time had organised Madhavpur Mela in Madhavpur Ghed in
Porbandar District of Gujarat under the banner of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat. Its purpose is to bring
various parts of country especially the North-East, close to each other.
Key Facts
The four day cultural extravaganza saw vibrant cultural trail of art, dance, music, poetry, story-telling and
folk drama from Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and other north-eastern states with an aim to integrate the
rich cultures of two regions. It also witnessed for first time the magnificent performances from north-
east, especially Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur.
Troupes from Assam performed Rukmini-Haran, a popular folk theatre of the region. Musical troupe from
Manipur sang songs related to Rukmini in Khullong Ishei and Nat genŕe. Dance-dramas based on
Rukmini-Krishna legends from Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur and folk dance of Idu Mishmi tribe from
Arunachal were also displayed.
Background
Madhavpur Mela of Gujarat shares its connect to Mishmi Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. The tribe traces its
ancestry to legendary King Bhishmak and through him to his daughter Rukmini and Lord Krishna.
Madhavpur Ghed is small but culturally significant village. According to folklore, it is place where, Lord
Krishna married Rukmini, the daughter of King Bhishmaka. Madhavpur lies on the seashore, close to
Porbandar. 15th century Madhavrai temple marks the site. Madhavpur Mela is commemorated b cultural
fair held every year, commencing on Ram Navami. As part of the celebrations, a colorful chariot carrying
idol of Krishna circumnavigates village and festivities usually continue for five days.
Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat
It was announced by Government 31st October, 2015 on the occasion of the 140th birth anniversary of
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Its objective is to strengthen cultural relations of various parts of country and to
embolden mutual connection between people dwelling in different in different states
It also aims to celebrate unity in diversity culture of nation and to bolster sentimental bonds between
people of different states. It aims to strengthen sentiments for National Unity between citizens of states
and states governed by union government by conducting various activities throughout year under this
campaign.
All States and UTs will be covered under programme. Under it, there will be pairing of states/UTs at
national level mainly for one year or till the next round of pairings. The pairings are being utilized for state
level activities. There are district level pairings also that are independent of state level pairings.

Print Biennale India 2018: First International Exhibition of Graphic Prints held in New Delhi
Mar 26 2018
The first-ever International Print Biennale, an International Exhibition of Graphic Prints was held in New
Delhi. It was organised by Lalit Kala Akademi.
Key Facts
The event comprised displaying of total 200 original prints are created by Indian and international artists
of impeccable competence. An exhibition Eminent Printmakers of India showcasing master Indian
printmakers was also held on sidelines of it. The international participants from USA, UK, Sri Lanka, Italy,
Mexico, China, Israel, Sweden, Lithuania, Poland, Argentina, Greece, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Mauritius also
had participated in the event. Total 988 entries at the national level were received of which 127 were
chosen for display.
Lalit Kala Akademi
It is also called as National Academy of Art. It is India’s national academy of fine arts. It is autonomous
organisation It was established in 1954 to promote and propagate understanding of Indian art, in and
outside the country. It provides scholarships and fellow program and sponsors and organises exhibitions
in India and overseas. It publishes bilingual journal. It is funded by Ministry of Culture. Its headquartered
are at Ravindra Bhawan, New Delhi.
Raja Ravi Varma’s painting on Tilottama fetches over Rs.5 crore at New York auction
Mar 23 2018
Renowned Indian painter Raja Ravi Varma’s untitled painting of Tilottama was sold for $795,000 (around
Rs 5 crore) at Sotheby’s Modern and Contemporary South Asian art auction in New York. The winning bid
was made by anonymous private collector.
Key Facts
The 20 x 13 and quarter inch oil on canvas masterpiece was created by Ravi Varma. Tilottama, as name
suggests is painting of celestial nymph (apsara) from Indian mythology depicted partially undressed in red
saree, flying to heavens. In the painting, her one hand is raised and other holding together her floating
saree.
Varma’s painting portrays apsara’s descent from the skies to earth is said to be inspired from Venus who
was embodiment of female beauty. The artist strove to impart the extreme desirability that led to demon
brothers’ downfall.
According to Hindu mythology, Tilottama was created at Brahma’s request to destroy two demon
brothers Sunda and Upasunda, who could not be killed by anyone except themselves. Legend has it that
two brothers were so captivated by beauty of apsara, that they fought over her and ended up killing each
other.
Raja Ravi Varma (April 1848- October 1906)
Raja Ravi Varma is considered one of the greatest painter in history of Indian art of 20th century for
number of aesthetic and broader social reasons. He hailed from princely state of Tranvancore and was
patronised by royal family for long time.
His art works are held to be among best examples of fusion of European techniques with purely Indian
sensibility. His paintings employed latest European academic art techniques of day and continuing
tradition and aesthetics of Indian art.
He was well-known for using mythological characters and bringing them alive through his pairings. He
painted beautiful scenes from Nala and Damayanti, Mahabharata, Ramayana etc. He was awarded Kaiser i
Hind Gold Medal by then British Government. His famous works include Shakuntala, Jatayu struck by
Ravana.
He and had made his paintings available to masses in form of lithographs. The dissemination of his
artworks helped the common man to appreciate art, a hobby generally reserved for upper class during his
period. His lithographs further helped to spread word about artist’s works, making him a household name
in the country.
Despite fame and recognition, only 64 works of Raja Ravi Varma have been auctioned in over three
decades. In March 2017, Sotheby’s reportedly sold Ravi Varma’s (Untitled) Damayanti for $1.2 million.
Further, auction house Pundole’s also had sold his masterpiece Radha in Moonlight for Rs. 23 crore.
National Cultural Audiovisual Archives becomes world’s first Trusted Digital Repository
Mar 21 2018
The National Cultural Audiovisual Archives (NCAA) project of Ministry of Culture was certified as world’s
first Trusted Digital Repository as per ISO 16363:2012 standard. The certification was granted by Primary
Trustworthy Digital Repository Authorisation Body Ltd. (PTAB), United Kingdom.
National Cultural Audiovisual Archives (NCAA)
NCAA is implemented by Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA). Its primary objective is to
identify and preserve cultural heritage of India available in audiovisual form through process of
digitization and make it accessible to the people.
The digitization and metadata standards followed for NCAA are in parity with international standards
within overall framework of OAIS (Open Archival Information System) model. They digitization standards
are as per prescribed by International Association of Sound & Audiovisual Archives (IASA) and metadata
schema is extended Dublin Core, followed by galleries, archives, libraries, and museums worldwide.
At present, NCAA has total of 21 Partnering Institutions from across the country, covering 11
governmental and 10 non-governmental cultural organisations It has digitized over 23,000 hours of
unpublished audiovisual recordings.
NCAA pilot digital repository was developed in collaboration with Centre of Excellence for Digital
Preservation by C-DAC, Pune. It was established with and powered by DIGITĀLAYA (डिजिटालय),
developed by C-DAC Pune in compliance with OAIS Reference Model ISO 14721:2012.
Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA)
IGNCA has been set up by Government as premier research institute dedicated to holistic understanding
and expression of Indian arts in their inter and multi-disciplinary nature. Its principal aim is to serve as
major national resource centre for the arts.
It is nodal agency for data bank on art, humanities and cultural heritage. It also has been identified by
UNESCO as nodal agency for development of regional databases for South and South East Asian countries
on art, cultural heritage and life-styles using state-of-the-art technologies for standardization,
dissemination and exchange of data.
President releases commemorative coins on Nabakalebar festival
Mar 19 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind has released Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 10 commemorative coins on the occasion of
Nabakalebar festival at a function held in Puri, Odisha. These coins were release to mark the festival which
is a symbolic recreation of sibling deities — Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.
Nabakalebara Festival
Nabakalebara festival is an ancient ritual that is observed in the Shree Jagannath Temple at Puri, Odisha
at predefined time according to Hindu Calender. Naba means new and Kalebara is body. In this festival,
the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra and Sudarshan are replaced by new idols as it is
believed that Lord Shree Jagannath adornes new body during Nabakalebara. It is usually comes in every
twelve to nineteen years based on the auspicious two months of Ashadha in a year called as Purusottam
month as per the Hindu calendar.
Jaipur to witness 8th Theatre Olympics
Mar 17 2018
Jaipur will co-host 8th Theatre Olympics, the largest international theatre festival being held for the first
time in India. The Jaipur chapter of Theatre Olympics 2018 is organised by National School of Drama
(NSD) under the aegis of Ministry of Culture in collaboration with Ravindra Manch Society and Art &
Culture Department, Rajasthan Government.
Key Facts
As a co-host, it will provide great opportunity to highlight the cultural heritage of Rajasthan. It will
provide platform to number of folk art forms and theatre performers from state have. Rajasthan has
number of indigenous folk and theatrical art forms, most of which are popular among people such as
puppet dance, Kalbelia, Ghoomar among others. Some of folk art forms like Swaang, Gawri among others
will be showcased during the theatre festival.

8th Theatre Olympics
The 8th edition of Theatre Olympics was inaugurated by Vice president Venkaih Naidu in New Delhi in
February 2018. The event was organised by National School of Drama (NSD). The theme of festival is –
“Flag of Friendship“
The 51-day long nationwide theatre extravaganza will cover 17 cities in India with more than 25,000
artists performing 450 shows, 600 ambience performances and 250 youth show. 30 countries participated
in the festival from across the globe.
noted Greek theatre director Theodorus Terzopoulus.
Greece was the first country to host the Theatre Olympics in 1995. Since then it was held in Japan (1999),
Russia (2001), Turkey (2006), South Korea (2010) and China (2014). The 7th edition of mega carnival of
theatre was held in Poland in 2016.
44th Khajuraho dance festival held in Madhya Pradesh
Feb 23 2018
The 44th edition of Khajuraho Dance Festival 2018 was held at Khajuraho temple, a UNESCO world
heritage site in Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh. It was inaugurated by Madhya Pradesh Governor
Anandiben Patel and was organised by culture department of state government.
Key Facts
Khajuraho Dance Festival is annual cultural festival that highlights richness of various Indian classical
dance styles. The 6-day festival showcased classical dances including Kathak, Odissi, Bharatnatyam,
Kuchipudi, Kathakali and Mohiniattam. Art Mart, which is part of festival showcased paintings of
international artists from Germany, France and China among other countries. During the festival, dances
were performed in an open- air auditorium, in front of Vishwanatha Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and
Chitragupta Temple dedicated to Sun God.
Khajuraho Temple
It is a group of Hindu and Jain Temples in Madhya Pradesh build by Chandela Dynasty between 950 and
1050 AD. They are UNESCO World heritage Site. The temples are famous for their nagara-style
architectural symbolism and their erotic sculptures (about 10% of total sculptures).
The temples at Khajuraho are all made of Sandstone. The largest temple at Khajuraho is the Kandariya
Mahadeva temple which is attributed to king Ganda. All the towers or shikhara of temple rise high,
upward in curved pyramidal fashion, emphasizing temple’s vertical thrust ending in horizontal fluted disc
called Amalaka topped with Kalasha or vase. The erotic expression of sculptures in these temples gives
equal importance in human experience as a spiritual pursuit, and it is seen as a part of the larger cosmic
whole.
8th edition of Theatre Olympics inaugurated
Feb 19 2018
The 8th edition of Theatre Olympics was inaugurated by Vice president Venkaih Naidu in New Delhi. The
event was organised by National School of Drama (NSD) under Ministry of Culture. The theme of the
festival is – “Flag of Friendship“.
Key Facts
51-day long nationwide theatre extravaganza was held in various cities. It featured Indian and
international theatre groups, eminent theatre personalities along with their performances. 30 countries
participated in the festival from across the globe. It will include 60 ‘living legends’ series conversing with
theatre enthusiasts and 50 ‘master classes’ on various art forms. It also included exhibitions, seminars,
symposia, interactive discussions and workshops with well-known authors, actors, designers and
directors.

noted Greek theatre director Theodorus Terzopoulus.
Greece was the first country to host the Theatre Olympics in 1995. Since then it was held in Japan (1999),
Russia (2001), Turkey (2006), South Korea (2010) and China (2014). The 7th edition of mega carnival of
theatre was held in Poland in 2016.
International Conference on Unani Medicine held in New Delhi
Feb 12 2018
The International Conference on Unani Medicine was held in New Delhi. It was inaugurated by Minister of
State (IC) for Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, MoS PMO, Ministry of Personnel, Public
Grievances and Pensions Dr. Jitendra Singh.
Key Facts
It was organised by Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM), under Ministry of AYUSH
is organizing as part of celebration of Unani Day (February 11). The theme of the conference was
Integration of Unani System of Medicine in main stream healthcare.
Various national level eminent personalities and stakeholders from academia, industry, regulators, and
researchers in field of Unani Medicine participated in deliberations of conference. Besides delegates from
countries like South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, UK, China, US, Portugal, UAE, Slovenia, Israel, Hungary,
Bahrain, Tajikistan, etc also participated in the conference.
The conference deliberated on issues related to globalization, research, standardization, quality control,
safety assessment, and industry perspective. It also provided platform to academia, researchers,
regulators, industry and students to develop visions, linkages and initiate projects that will help in
promoting Unani system of medicine as one of the preferred systems of medicine across the globe.
Unani Day
The birthday of great Unani researcher Hakim Ajmal Khan i.e. 11th February is celebrated as Unani Day.
Hakim Ajmal Khan was eminent Indian Unani physician who was versatile genius, freedom fighter,
educationist and founder of scientific research in Unani Medicine. This year it was 150th Birth
Anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan.
Unani system of medicine
Unani system of medicine is the term for Perso-Arabic traditional medicine as practiced in Mughal India
and in Muslim culture in South Asia and modern day Central Asia. It had originated in Greece. Hippocrates
is known as the father of this system of medicine. The term Yūnānī (Greek) means Perso-Arabic system of
medicine. It was introduced to India in 13th century with the establishment of Delhi Sultanate and it took
its own course of development during Mughal Empire after it was influenced by Indian medical teachings
of Sushruta and Charaka.
PM Modi lays foundation stone of first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi
Feb 12 2018
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone-laying ceremony for construction of first
traditional Hindu temple in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi, the capital city of United Arab Emirates (UAE). The
UAE government had allocated land for the temple during PM Modi’s first visit to the gulf country in 2015.
Key Fcats
It will be the first traditional Hindu stone temple in the Middle East. The temple design and structure is
along the lines of the Akshardham temple in Delhi and other places. It will come up on 55,000 square
metres of land. It will include idols of Lord Krishna, Lord Maheshwara, Lord Ayyappa and more.
It will incorporate all aspects and features of a traditional Hindu temple as part of fully functional, social,
cultural and spiritual complex. It will be hand-carved by Indian temple artisans and assembled in UAE. It
will also feature a garden and a water-front. It will be completed by 2020 and open to people of all
religious backgrounds.
Janadriyah: Sushma Swaraj inaugurates Saudi Arabia’s National Heritage Festival
Feb 9 2018
King Salman bin Abdulaziz in presence of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj inaugurated 32nd
edition of Saudi Arabia’s National Heritage Festival in Janadriyah village, Riyadh. This year India is guest
of honor country.
Key Facts
Jenadriyah is cultural and heritage festival of Saudi Arabia. It is held annually at Jenadriyah village near
Riyadh. It is organised every year by National Guard. It was held for first time in 1985. It draws more than
one million visitors every year.
The festival normally falls during the month of February or March. The activities in festivals include camel
race, horse race, sports, dance, arts, history, falconry, and traditional arts and crafts.
The India Pavilion at festival was based on the theme ‘Saudi ka dost Bharat’. It showcased traditional and
modern aspects of India and its culture. Previous guests of honor countries were Turkey, Russia, France,
Japan, South Korea, China, UAE and Germany.
India-Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is India’s fourth largest trade partner after China, US and UAE. It is major source of India’s
energy security requirement as it accounts for almost one-fifth of India’s crude oil requirement. The
volume of bilateral trade between both countries during 2016-17 was recorded at $25.079 billion. Saudi
Arabia is home to more than 3 million Indian people.
President inaugurates 88th Mahamastakabhisheka at Shravanabelagola
Feb 9 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated 88th Mahamastakabhisheka of Lord Gomateshwara by unveiling
inauguration of the mega event which is held once in 12 years.

an idol of Bahubali at Shravanabelagola in Hassan district, Karnataka. President also lighted lamp to mark
Mahamastakabhisheka
Mahamasthakabhisheka is the head anointing ceremony is performed once in 12 years of 57 feet tall
monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali Gommateshwara at Shravanabelagola. It is one of biggest festivals for
Jain community and it honors Lord Bahubali, a revered Jain icon. According to Jain texts, Bahubali had
attained liberation from cycle of births and deaths (moksha) at Mount Kailash and is revered as a liberated
soul (Siddha) by Jains.
Bahubali is also called Gommateshwara because of Gommateshwara statue dedicated to him and as lord
Kammateswara from an inscription. Gommateshwara statue was built by Ganga dynasty minister and
commander Chavundaraya in around 981 AD. It is a 57-foot monolith, making it one of largest free-
standing statues in world.
32nd Surajkund International Crafts Mela held in Haryana
Feb 3 2018
The 32nd edition of Surajkund International Crafts Mela was held at Faridabad, Haryana. It was formally
inaugurated by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in the presence of Haryana CM Manohar Lal
Khattar.
It is annual cultural festival hosted since 1987 to showcase richness and diversity of the handicrafts and
cultural heritage of India. This year Uttar Pradesh is theme state and Kyrgyzstan is the partner nation.
Key facts
The Mela is organized every year by Surajkund Mela Authority and Haryana Tourism in collaboration with
Union Ministries of Tourism, Textiles, Culture and External Affairs Ministry. The 15-day festival
showcases richness and diversity of handicrafts, handlooms and cultural heritage of the country.
The festival’s name Surajkund derives its name from ancient amphitheatre constructed in 10th century
AD by Raja Suraj Pal, one of Tomar chieftains. This is unique monument was built to worship Sun God
(Surya) and it resembles a Greek amphitheatre.
This year Uttar Pradesh as theme state showcased its religious tourism, rural tourism and spiritual
tourism apart from its art, culture and heritage. 29 countries also took part in this edition of Mela. It also
showcased religious tourism circuit — such as Ayodhya, Kashi, Mathura apart from the art, culture, and
heritage of UP.
Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi K Palanichamy receives UNESCO Award
Jan 24 2018
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palanichamy received UNESCO Award of Merit awarded to the
iconic Srirangam Ranganathaswamy temple in Tiruchirapalli.

The award of merit was awarded by UNESCO Asia Pacific region for the reconstruction activities
undertaken in temple without in least affecting its traditional splendour and Vedic rituals.
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
It is considered as one of the most important of the 108 main Vishnu temples (Divyadesams). It is
Vaishnava temple built in Tamil or Dravidian style of architecture. It is located on an islet formed by twin
rivers: Coleroon and Cauvery. The temple complex is situated in sprawling ground of more than 156 acres.
The temple and 1000 pillared hall were constructed in the Vijayanagar period (1336–1565) on the site of an
older temple. It has seven prakaras or enclosures. Its Gopuram also called as “Raja Gopuram is the biggest
gopuram in Asia. It annually hosts 21-day festival during the Tamil month of Margazhi (between
December and January) which attracts over 1 million visitors.
UNESCO Asia-Pacific awards for cultural heritage conservation programme
The UNESCO Asia-Pacific awards for cultural heritage conservation programme is aimed at
acknowledging efforts taken to restore and conserve historical structures without affecting their heritage
value. The awards are classified under four categories – Awards of Distinction, Awards of Merit, Award of
Excellence and Award for New Design in Heritage Context.
Losar Festival celebrated in Ladakh
Dec 19 2017
The traditional festival of Losar was celebrated in Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir to mark the
beginning of New Year in this Himalayan region. The 10 day long festival began with illumination of
religious and residential places and by visiting monasteries for prayer.
Losar festival
The Losar festival marks the beginning of New year in Ladakh and Tibet region and falls in December.
Losar is Tibetan word for ‘new year’. It is considered to be the most important festival of the region. It is
an important social and religious celebration in Ladakh. Ladakhi Buddhists make religious offering before
their deities in the domestic shrines or in the Gompas.
A medley of cultural events, ancient rituals and also traditional performances are performed during this
festival. There is blaring music events accompanied with dancing and celebration, dinner with relatives.
Houses are decorated with good luck signs. Prayer flags are hoisted in important religious places to
welcome the new year.
UNESCO names Kumbh Mela in list of Intangible Cultural Heritage
Dec 8 2017
The Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage under UNESCO has
inscribed ´KumbhMela´ on UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The inscription of Kumbh Mela in list was undertaken following recommendation by expert body which
examines nominations submitted by member countries of UNESCO during its 12th session of Committee
held at Jeju, South Korea. KumbhMela is the 14th intangible cultural heritage from India to be listed in
UNESCO’s list.
KumbhMela
KumbhMela is held every four times every 12 years at four different locations across central and northern
India. It is the largest religious congregation and largest peaceful gathering on planet. This vast
celebration attracts tens of millions of Hindu pilgrims, including mendicant nagas.
The first written evidence of the Kumbha Mela is mentioned in Bhagvat Purana. Another written evidence
of Kumbha Mela is in works of Huen Tsang, who visited India in 629–645 AD, during reign of Harsha. The
Samudra manthan episode also has mentioned in Bhagavata Purana, Vishnu Purana, Mahabharata, and
Ramayana.
Kumbh Mela is held every third year at one of four places by rotation: Haridwar, Allahabad, Nashik and
Ujjain. Thus, it is held at each of these four places every twelfth year. Ardha Kumbha Mela, which is next in
sanctity, is held only at Haridwar and Allahabad.
The rivers at these four places are Ganga at Haridwar, Prayag Sangam at Allahabad, Godawari at Nashik,
and Shipra at Ujjain. The largest crowd is held on Mauni Amavasya.
UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage

The UNESCO’s coveted list is made up of those intangible heritage elements that help demonstrate
diversity of cultural heritage and raise awareness about its importance. The list was established in 2008
when Convention for Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage came into effect. It includes
important intangible cultural heritages worldwide. It has two parts viz. Representative List of Intangible
Cultural Heritage of Humanity and List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of urgent Safeguarding.
List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity from India
Koodiyattam: Sanskrit Theatre of Kerala.
Mudiyett: theatre ritual of Kerala.
Tradition of Vedic Chanting.
Kalbelia: folk songs and dances of Rajasthan.
Ramlila: Traditional Performance of the Ramayana.
Sankirtana: singing, drumming and dancing ritual of Manipur.
Ramman: religious festival and ritual theatre of Garhwal Himalayas.
Traditional brass and copper craft of utensil of Thatheras: Punjab.
Chhau dance: classical Indian dance originated in the eastern Indian states.
Buddhist chanting of Ladakh: recitation of sacred Buddhist texts in Ladakh region of Jammu and
Kashmir.
Yoga
Banglar Rasogolla, Mamallapuram stone sculptures get GI tag
Nov 15 2017
The Geographical Indication (GI) Registry and Intellectual Property India has presented Geographical
Indication (GI) Tag status to Banglar Rasogolla of West Bengal and Mamallapuram stone sculptures of
Tamil Nadu.
Banglar Rasgolla: The Directorate of Food Processing Industry of West Bengal had made an application
on September 8, 2015, seeking the GI status for Banglar Rasogolla. According to application, Rasogollas
were invented in Nadia district of West Bengal are 60 years old (lower end time frame). Haradhan, a
confectioner of village Phulia is named as the inventor. West Bengal has given half-a-dozen historical
evidences to back its claim.
Sculptures from Mamallapuram: They are carved in stone with characteristics of intricate designing
chiselled finely. They are carved inspirit of surrounding Pallava art and architecture. The description
includes cave architecture, rock architecture, open sculptures, structural temples, relief sculptures and
painting or portrait sculptures.
Geographical Indication (GI) Tag
The Geographical Indication (GI) is name or sign used on certain products which correspond to specific
geographical location or origin. It is used for agricultural, natural and manufactured goods having special
quality and established reputation.
These goods and products having tag are recognised for their origin, quality and reputation and gives it
required edge in the global market. It also ensures that none can use their name, giving them exclusivity.
The registration of a GI is valid for 10 years after which it needs to be renewed.
GI is covered as element of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under Paris Convention for Protection of
Industrial Property. At international level, GI is governed by WTO’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects
of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).
In India, GI tag is governed by Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection Act), 1999.
This Act is administered by Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks, who is also Registrar
of Geographical Indications.
Chennai included in UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network for Contribution in Music
Nov 8 2017
Chennai, capital city of Tamil Nadu was recently included in United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organization (UNESCO’s) Creative Cities Network for Contribution in Music.
It was among 64 cities from 44 countries that were designated as UNESCO Creative Cities. With inclusion
of these cities, total count of UNESCO Creative Cities Network has now gone up to 180 cities in 72
countries.
Chennai is the third Indian city on the list of UNESCO Creative Cities list after Varanasi (added as City of
Music) and Jaipur (City of Crafts and Folk Art) were added last year.
UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network
UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network was launched in 2004. It aims to foster international cooperation with
and between cities committed to investing in creativity as a driver for sustainable urban development,
social inclusion and cultural vibrancy. It includes cities within its seven creative fields (Crafts and Folk
Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts and Music). It strengthen cooperation with and
among cities that have recognised creativity as strategic factor of sustainable development in regards
with the economic, social, cultural and environmental aspects.
Tamil Nadu’s Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple wins UNESCO award
Nov 4 2017
The Sri Ranganathaswamy temple at Srirangam in Tamil Nadu has won UNESCO Asia-Pacific award for
cultural heritage conservation programme in the Awards of Merit category. It is first temple from Tamil
Nadu to grab the prestigious honour from the UN body.
The temple won the award in recognition of its efforts for protecting and conserving cultural heritage.
The traditional method of renovating temple premises as well as re-establishment of rainwater harvesting
and historic drainage system in preventing flooding were two key parameters that earned temple the
award.
UNESCO Asia-Pacific awards for cultural heritage conservation programme
The awards were launched in 2000 by UNESCO for cultural heritage conservation programme. They are
given under four categories– Award of Excellence, Awards of Distinction, Awards of Merit and Award for
New Design in Heritage Context.
These awards aim at acknowledging efforts taken to restore and conserve historical structures without
affecting their heritage value in region comprising 48 countries. They are being given to encourage the
efforts of all stakeholders and the public in conserving and promoting monuments and religious institutes
with rich heritage in the Asia-Pacific region.
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
It is one of the most illustrious Vaishnava temples in South India. It has been mentioned Tamil literature
as early as Sangam era. The temple is treasure trove of India’s ancient history. It is constructed in the
Tamil or Dravidian style of temple architecture.
The legends call it one of eight self-manifested shrines of Lord Vishnu and one of the most important 108
main Vishnu temples. It is known by several names such as Thiruvaranga Tirupati, Bhoologa Vaikundam,
Periyakoil, Bhogamandabam.
This temple lies on an island formed by twin rivers Cauvery and Coleroon. Its complex stretches over 156
acres with perimeter of 4,116 m. It is the largest temple in India and one of largest religious complexes in the
world. The temple has over seven prakaras or enclosures, which are formed by thick and huge defensive
walls running around the holy shrine. It has over 21 magnificent towers inside all prakaras.
The main entrance of temple known as Rajagopuram (royal temple tower) is 73m high and moves up in
eleven progressively smaller tiers. The temple annually hosts 21-day festival during the Tamil month of
Margazhi (between December and January) which attracts over 1 million visitors.
Etikoppaka toys from Andhra Pradesh get GI tag
Nov 3 2017
The Geographical Indication Registry (GIR) has given Geographical Indication (GI) tag traditional
Etikoppaka toys (Etikoppaka Bommalu) from Andhra Pradesh. These traditional toys are made by artisans
in Etikoppaka village located on banks of river Varaha in Visakhapatnam district of the state.
With this, Etikoppaka toys join elite products from Andhra Pradesh such as Kondapalli toys, Tirupati
laddu, Bobbili Veena, Srikalahasthi Kalamkari, Uppada Jamdani sarees and Shadow puppets to have

coveted GI tag.
Etikoppaka toys
The art of making traditional wooden Etikoppaka toys is more than 400 years old and it has been
traditionally handed over to them by their ancestors through generations. The art of this toy making is
also known as turned wood Lacquer craft.
The toys are unique in shape and form. They are made of wood and painted with natural dyes. The wood
used is from ‘Ankudi Karra’ (Wrightia tinctoria) tree that is soft in nature. The natural dyes are prepared
from seeds, lacquer, bark, roots and leaves. These dynes are unique as they do not have heavy metal or
toxic content in it.
Geographical Indication (GI)
The Geographical Indication (GI) is name or sign used on certain products which correspond to specific
geographical location or origin. It is used for agricultural, natural and manufactured goods having special
quality and established reputation.
These goods and products having tag are recognised for their origin, quality and reputation and gives it
required edge in the global market. It also ensures that none can use their name, giving them exclusivity.
The registration of a GI is valid for 10 years after which it needs to be renewed.
GI is covered as element of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under Paris Convention for Protection of
Industrial Property. At international level, GI is governed by WTO’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects
of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).
In India, GI tag is governed by Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection Act), 1999.
This Act is administered by Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks, who is also Registrar
of Geographical Indications.
Girija Devi: Queen of Thumri passes away
Oct 25 2017
Eminent classical singer Girija Devi passed away following a cardiac arrest at age of 88. She was
considered as queen of thumri, a common genre of semi-classical Indian music.
Girija Devi
She was born in zamindar family at village near Banaras on May 8, 1929. She was legendary singer of the
“Seniya and Banaras gharanas”. Music was a part of her life from a very early age. She had received Padma
Shri (1972), Padma Bhushan (1989) Padma Vibhushan (2016), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1977), Sangeet
Natak Akademi Fellowship (2010) and Maha Sangeet Samman Award (2012) etc.
Thumri
Thumri (ठुमरी) is common genre of semi-classical Indian music originated in eastern part of Uttar
Pradesh. The term ‘thumri’ is derived from Hindi verb thumakna which means to walk with dancing steps
so as to make ankle-bells tinkle.
Thumri is connected with dance, dramatic gestures, mild eroticism, evocative love poetry and folk songs
of Uttar Pradesh, though there are regional variations. Its text is romantic or devotional in nature and
usually revolves around girl’s love for Krishna.
World’s oldest maritime astrolabe that guided ships to India found
Oct 25 2017
Britain-based shipwreck hunter has found maritime astrolabe, a navigation tool that guided Portuguese
explorers on perilous voyage to India in 16th century. It dates between 1495 and 1500 and has been
confirmed as world’s oldest astrolabe.
The maritime astrolabe was discovered during from a shipwreck off coast of Oman in 2014 and recently
was confirmed world’s maritime oldest by Warwick University based on laser scans.
Key Facts
The maritime astrolabe is 17.5-centimetre wide and is made of bronze disc. It carries personal emblem of
King Manuel I of Portugal, who came to throne in October 1495. It is claimed that it was discovered from
shipwreck of ship called Esmeralda, which was part of Vasco da Gama’s second expedition to India of
1502-1503 and was captained by explorer’s uncle. Vasco Da Gama was first European to reach India by sea
in 1498 and his discovery of sea route had opened way for age of colonialism and trade between Europe
and Asia.
Astrolabe
An astrolabe is an elaborate inclinometer, historically used by astronomers and navigators to measure
inclined position in sky of celestial body, day or night. It can be used to identify stars or planets and to
determine local latitude on land or calm seas given local time (and vice versa) and to survey. The
Portuguese were at forefront of developing astrolabes at sea. The oldest reference of them using them at
sea is about 1480. The previous oldest maritime astrolabe was on a ship from 1533.
Sangeet Natak Akademi Puraskar for Satyabrata Rout
May 29 2017
Satyabrata Rout has been awarded Sangeet Natak Akademi Puraskar for the year 2016. He is a professor
from the Department of Theatre Arts, S N School of Arts and Communication, University of Hyderabad
(UoH). He has been awarded for developing a unique method of teaching and practicing direction and
design achieved from his experience working with eminent theatre practitioners and scholars.
Satyabrata Rout is considered as one of the pioneers of ‘visual theatre’ in India. He has a rich experience of
directing a number of plays, participating in national and international theatre festivals and conducting
a numerous theatre workshops across the globe.
The Sangeet Natak Akademi Puraskar (Akademi Award) is an award given by the Sangeet Natak Akademi.
The award is the highest Indian recognition given to practicing artists. The award includes a purse of Rs
50000, besides a Tamrapatra and Angavastram. The awards are being presented in the categories of
music, dance, theatre, other traditional arts and puppetry.
Sangeet Natak Akademi
The Sangeet Natak Akademi was set up in 1953 for the promotion of performing arts. Setting up of
Sangeet Natak Akademi is one of the main recommendations of the National conference on Dance, Drama,
and Music, held in New Delhi in 1951. The Sangeet Natak Akademi is an Autonomous Body under the
Ministry of Culture. It acts at the national level body for the promotion and growth of Indian music, dance
and drama; maintenance of standards of training in the performing arts; recognition of outstanding
artists; revival, preservation, documentation and dissemination of materials as well as instruments
relating to various forms of music, dance and drama.
India to Organise Cultural Festival in Egypt to mark Tagore’s 156th Birth Anniversary
May 8 2017
India will organise Tagore cultural Festival in Egypt to mark the 156th birth anniversary of Rabindranath
Tagore from May 8-12. Tagore Festival will be organised by the Maulana Azad Centre for Indian Culture
(MACIC), which is the cultural wing of the Indian Embassy in Cairo. The fest will be organised in
cooperation with the Egyptian Ministry of Culture, Cairo Opera House, Cultural Production Sector,
Dancers’ Guild and the Indian Community Association in Egypt. The festival will feature a dance show,
film screening, a play and painting competition. As a part of the festival, a dance drama based on Tagore’s
work called ‘Chitrangada‘ will be performed by the Kolkata-based Dancers’ Guild. Chitrangada is the
warrior princess in the epic, Mahabharata.
Egypt’s Connection
Tagore visited Egypt as a young adolescent in 1878 and later in 1926. Tagore was impressed by the strong
literary trends of Egypt. On his visit, he met King Fouad and has interacted with many scholars in
Alexandria and Cairo. He had an enduring friendship with Egyptian poet Ahmed Shawki and wrote a
moving eulogy on his death in 1932. Tagore had also written about the beautiful relationship between the
Nile River and the flourishing civilisation of Egyptians.
Rabindranath Tagore
Rabindranath Tagore was a famous Indian poet (1861-1941). He was the first non-European to receive the
Nobel Prize. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1913 for his collection of poems, ‘Gitanjali‘.
His poetry, novels, plays, short stories and essays are world famous and are widely read across the
world. He has contributed immensely to Bengali literature and India’s literary heritage. Rabindranath
Tagore had renounced his knighthood protesting against the Jallianwalla Bagh Massacre. Rabindranath
Tagore was the youngest son of Debendranath Tagore who was associated with the Brahmo Samaj.
International Conference on Dara Shikoh to be held

Apr 25 2017
The international conference on “Dara Shikoh: Reclaiming Spiritual Legacy of India” will be held on April 27
and 28. The conference will be organised by the Indian Council Of Cultural Relations (ICCR). The
conference will see the participation of eminent scholars from the US, Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan,
Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and India. The objective of the conference is to highlight Dara Shikoh’s
contributions to bring about spiritual homogenisation of Hinduism and Islam and his initiatives in
building a cohesive social and cultural edifice in India.
Dara Sikoh
Dara Sikoh was an intellectual, wise and a paragon of harmonious coexistence of various religions. He
loved Muslims, Hindus, Sufis and Sikhs all alike. Dara Shikoh dedicated himself to create a bridge of
Hindu-Muslim Unity and was so learned that translated 50 Upanishads from Sanskrit to Persian for the
Muslim Scholars. This work is called Sirr-i-Akbar, the great mystery. Through his research, he reached a
conclusion that a common spiritual basis existed between Hinduism and Islam. He wrote that a great deal
of Quranic wisdom existed in Upanishads. He also documented the Quranic terms and their Sanskrit
equivalents from Upanishads. He was invited to lay the foundation of the Golden Temple of Amritsar and
he befriended with 7thGuru of Sikhs Guru Har Rai.
January 12: National Youth Day
Jan 12 2017
The National Youth Day is observed every year on 12 January to mark the birth anniversary of social
reformer, philosopher and thinker Swami Vivekananda.
Observance of the day seeks to propagate the philosophy and the ideals of Swami Vivekananda for which
he lived and worked. It will also help and act as a great source of inspiration for the Indian Youth.
Several functions are being organised across the country to mark the occasion. To celebrate this day, the
21st National Youth Festival was held in Rohtak, Haryana. The theme this Festival was ‘Youth for Digital
India’.
About Swami Vivekananda
Swami Vivekananda was born as Narendranath Dutta on 12 January 1863 and died on 4 July 1902.
He and was chief disciple of the 19th century saint Ramakrishna Paramhamsa.
He was one of the most prominent figures of India who introduced Indian philosophies of Vedanta
and Yoga to the “Western” World.
He is credited with raising interfaith awareness, bringing Hinduism to the status of a major world
religion during the late 19th century.
He is also considered as the major force in the revival of Hinduism in India, and contributed to the
concept of nationalism in colonial India.
He is best known for his speech which began, “Sisters and brothers of America …,” at the Parliament
of the World’s Religions in Chicago in 1893 in which he introduced Hinduism.
This speech was considered as one of his most significant contributions to the world and was a
breakdown of the ancient philosophy of Hindusim, aided with logic and impeccable scientific insight.
6,117 Kuchipudi dancers set new Guinness World Record
Dec 26 2016
As many as 6,117 Kuchipudi dancers set a new Guinness World Record by performing together in a single
event in Vijayawada district of Andhra Pradesh.
The Guinness World Record adjudicated for the 12-minute “Jayamu Jayamu” item as the ‘Largest
Kuchipudi dance’ performance.
Key Facts
Kuchipudi dancers from various age groups (as young as 5 to more than 60 years) from across the
world, including from US, UAE, UK, Russia, Hong Kong and Mauritius took part in performance.
The record event was organised by SiliconAndhra, a cultural non-profit organisation in association
with the Andhra Pradesh Government at IGMC Stadium.

‘Jayamu Jayamu’ was choreographed by the legendary Vempati China Satyam and it was chosen for
the record attempt ‘Mahabrinda Natyam’.
The ‘Mahabrinda Natyam’ was part of the 5th International Kuchipudi Dance Convention hosted by
the Andhra Pradesh Government’s Department of Language and Culture.
About Kuchipudi dance
Kuchipudi is one of the ten major Indian classical dances. It originated in a village of Krishna district
in modern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It derives its name from this village.
It is a dance-drama performance art, with its roots in the ancient Hindu Sanskrit text of Natya
Shastra.
Like all major classical dances of India, it was also developed as a religious art linked to traveling
bards, temples and spiritual beliefs.
The Kuchipudi style was conceived by Siddhendra Yogi, a talented Vaishnava poet of 17th century.
It begins with an invocation to Lord Ganesha followed by nritta (non-narrative and abstract
dancing); shabdam (narrative dancing) and natya.
The dance is accompanied by song which is typically Carnatic music. The singer is accompanied by
musical instruments like mridangam, violin, flute and tambura.
Like other classical dances, Kuchipudi also comprises pure dance, mime and histrionics but it is the
use of speech that distinguishes Kuchipudi’s presentation as dance drama.
Hornbill Festival begins in Nagaland
Dec 3 2016
The Hornbill Festival began in the Naga Heritage village of Kisama. The festival coincides with the
Statehood Day of Nagaland which is observed on December 1.
It is tourism promotional extravaganza to revive, protect and preserve the richness and uniqueness of the
Naga heritage. It is also called as the ‘Festival of Festivals‘.
Key Facts
Hornbill Festival is celebrated in Nagaland every year in the first week of December. It is one of the
biggest indigenous festivals of the country.
The festival is a tribute to Hornbill, the most admired and revered bird for the Nagas for its qualities
of alertness and grandeur.
The majestic bird is closely identified with the social and cultural life of the Nagas as reflected in
tribal folklore, dances and songs.
It is organized by the State Tourism and Art & Culture Departments. It is also supported by the
Union Government.
The Hornbill Festival provides a colourful mixture of dances, performances, crafts, parades, games,
sports, food fairs and religious ceremonies.
It exposes both the culture and tradition of tribal peoples, and reinforces Nagaland’s identity as a
unique state in India’s federal union.
It was established on 1st December 1963 and was inaugurated by the then President Dr. S
Radhakrishnan.
Over the years festival has become a unique platform for tourists to witness cultural diversity not
only of the Nagas and other seven sister states of the northeastern region.
UNESCO includes Yoga in Intangible Cultural Heritage list
Dec 2 2016
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has formally inscribed
Yoga in its representative list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Decision in this regard was taken by the Inter-governmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the
Intangible Cultural Heritage meeting held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The declaration describes Yoga, an ancient Indian practice as a Human Treasure. It was unanimously
supported by all the 24 members of inter-governmental Committee.
Other new inscriptions added in the list are Rumba dance (Cuba), Belgian beer (Belgium), Almezmar (Saudi
Arabia), Kuresi (Kazakhstan) and Khidr Elias feast (Iraq), Yama, Hoko, Yatai, float festivals (Japan),
Momoeria, New Year’s celebration (Greece), practice of organizing shared interests in cooperatives
(Germany),Making and sharing flatbread (Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan), Culture of Jeju Haenyeo (South
Korea), Gada system (Ethiopia),Tahteeb, stick game (Egypt), Music and dance of the merengue (Dominican
Republic), Valencia Fallas festivity (Spain), Solar Term(China), Mangal Shobhajatra on Pahela
Baishakh(Bangladesh).
Background
The proposal for inclusion of Yoga in this list was forwarded by the Union Ministry of External Affairs
(MEA) immediately after the first International Yoga Day was on 21st June 2016. The dossier in this regard
was forwarded by MEA through the Sangeet Natak Akademi. India’s proposal for nominating Yoga had
stressed upon its pan-Indian and global expanse, health benefits and practised by people from all
communities.
About UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage
The UNESCO’s coveted list is made up of those intangible heritage elements that help demonstrate
diversity of cultural heritage and raise awareness about its importance.
It was established in 2008 after Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage,
2003 came into effect.
It compiles two lists viz. Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and
List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.
Now, the list includes 814 cultural sites, 203 natural and 35 with both cultural and natural qualities.
List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity from India
Koodiyattam: Sanskrit Theatre of Kerala.
Mudiyett: theatre ritual of Kerala.
Tradition of Vedic Chanting.
Kalbelia: folk songs and dances of Rajasthan.
Ramlila: Traditional Performance of the Ramayana.
Sankirtana: singing, drumming and dancing ritual of Manipur.
Ramman: religious festival and ritual theatre of Garhwal Himalayas.
Traditional brass and copper craft of utensil of Thatheras: Punjab.
Chhau dance: classical Indian dance originated in the eastern Indian states.
Buddhist chanting of Ladakh: recitation of sacred Buddhist texts in Ladakh region of Jammu and
Kashmir.
Chinese scholar Xuan Zang stayed in Vijayawada to study Buddhist scriptures
Nov 4 2016
Seventh century Chinese Buddhist pilgrim and scholar Xuan Zang (also spelled Hsuan Tsang) stayed a
couple of years in Bezawada (the old name of Vijayawada) to copy and study Buddhist scriptures.
In 630 AD, Xuan Zang came to India through Kashmir after visiting Central Asia, Iran and Afghanistan
through the Silk Route. He had travelled from north to east during his 14-year stay and lived in Bihar for a
couple of years. At Nalanda University, Xuan Zang had interacted with scholars and students, mastered
local languages and discovered Buddhist stupas.
Xuan Zang travelled to Andhradesa to visit the Viharas (monasteries) at Amaravathi and Nagarjunakonda
around 640 CE and stayed at Amaravathi for a couple of years. During his stay, he had studied and copied
the Abhidhammapitakam, the last of the three pitakas (Pali for baskets) constituting the Pali canon, the
scriptures of Theravada Buddhism.
What are proofs of his stay?
British chronicler and collector of Kistna Gordon Mackenzie in his manual written in 1883 recorded
that Xuan Zang in his writing spoke about the kingdom of Anta-lo (Andhra) with its capital Ping-ki-
lo (Vengi) and in Dhanakacheka (Dharani Kota?).
He also recorded that Xuan Zang described two Poorasaila (eastern hill) and Aparasaila (western hill)

Buddhist monasteries.
According to V.V. Krishna Sastry, former director of the united Andhra Pradesh Archaeology
department these two monasteries are actually Moghalrajpuram caves and Akkannna Madanna
caves located in the heart of Vijayawada.
These Buddhist monasteries (Viharas) were converted into Hindu Cave temples during the reign of
the Vishnukundins (reign was from 420 to 624).
Significance Xuan Zang’s visit
The writings of Xuan Zang about his travels in India are detailed accounts of the life of the people in
the 7th century.
Chinese government has used his work to establish that the relationship between India and China is
1,400 years old.
PM Narendra Modi inaugurates first National Tribal Carnival
Oct 25 2016
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first National Tribal Carnival in New Delhi to promote a
sense of inclusiveness among the tribals.
The main purpose of this four-day carnival is to promote a sense of inclusiveness among the tribals. It will
also showcase and promote various facets of tribal culture on a large scale.
Key Facts
In this carnival around 1,600 tribal artists and around 8,000 tribal delegates from across the country
are taking part.
Besides, eminent tribal personalities who have excelled in various fields like arts and culture,
literature, sports, academics and medicine will also participate.
The idea behind the carnival is to preserve and promote various facets of the tribal life relating to
culture, tradition, customs and their skills.
Besides it also seeks to expose it to the general public with a view to utilise the potential for overall
holistic development of the Scheduled Tribes.
The carnival will host activities like displaying documents on traditional socio-culture aspects,
exhibition of art/artifacts, cultural performances. It will also demonstration of skills like paintings,
traditional healing practices, sports, etc.
It will also host workshops on issues like implementation of Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled
Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA), Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006.
Harikatha: traditional art of story-telling in South India
Oct 12 2016
Harikatha, a traditional art story-telling was in news for its revival due to patronage from various cultural
organisation.
Harikatha is a form of Hindu religious discourse in which the storyteller explores a religious theme,
usually based on the life of a saint or a story from an Indian epic.
What is Harikatha?
Harikatha is an art form composed of storytelling, music, drama, dance, poetry, and philosophy in
South India especially in villages of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
It had originated from Ajjada village of Srikakulam in Coastal Andhra. Its aim is to imbue truth and
righteousness in the minds of people and sow the seeds of devotion in them.
It also aims to educate people about knowledge of atman (self) through stories and show them the
path of liberation.
Harikatha at its peak was a popular medium of entertainment, which had helped to transmit
cultural, educational and religious values to the masses.
Style of Harikatha
Harikatha involves the narration of a story, intermingled with various songs relating to the story.
The subject for the Harikatha story may be any Hindu religious theme.

Usually the narration of story involves numerous sub-plots and anecdotes, which are used to
emphasise various aspects of the main story.
The main story teller is usually assisted by one or more co-singers, who elaborate the songs and
Mridangam accompanist. The storyteller uses a pair of cymbals to keep beat.
UNESCO lists Khangchendzonga National Park and Chandigarh’ Capitol Complex in World
Heritage Sites
Jul 18 2016
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), has added Sikkim’s
Khangchendzonga National Park (KNP) and Chandigarh’ Capitol Complex in its list of World Heritage
Sites.
Decision in this regard was taken by the 40th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) of
UNESCO held in Istanbul in Turkey.
Khangchendzonga National Park (KNP)
KNP was added in the ’mixed’ heritage site category of the list i.e. it exhibits qualities of both
natural and cultural significance.
With this, it becomes the first ‘mixed’ heritage site from India to make it to the list.
KNP covers 25% of Sikkim and is home to a significant number of endemic, rare and threatened
plant and animal species including large number of bird and mammal species.
Geographically the park includes a unique diversity of plains, valleys, lakes, glaciers and spectacular
snow-capped mountains covered with ancient forests.
The park combines the religious and cultural practices of Buddhism as well as the ecological
significance of the region.
It signifies an outstanding example of traditional knowledge and environmental preservation.
Chandigarh’s Capitol Complex
Chandigarh’s famed Capitol Complex designed by Swiss-French architecture Le Corbusier was
added in the list in the Transnational category.
The site was added in the list as part of the UNESCO’s recognition of Le Corbusier’s architectural
works in different parts of the world.
The Capitol Complex includes the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Punjab and Haryana Secretariat
and Punjab and Haryana Assembly.
The complex was designed by Le Corbusier in the 1950s when the city was constructed as a symbol
of independent, modern India.
India’s three sites inscribed in Word Heritage List
The 40th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) of UNESCO, three sites from India were
inducted in Word Heritage List. Earlier Bihar’s Nalanda University was added in the list.
With this, India becomes first country to get three sites inscribed in the Word Heritage List at a
single session of the committee meeting.
With these additions, India now has 35 world heritage sites, including 27 cultural heritage sites, 7
natural sites and 1 mixed site.
World famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath begins
Jul 7 2016
The annual Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) of Lord Jagannath began different parts of the country. The
festival is celebrated on second day of Sukla Paksha i.e. the day in bright fortnight of Ashadha month. It
will see congregation of more than 10 lakh devotees.
In Odisha, the Rath Yatra in the coastal city of Puri began at 12th century Jagannath temple.
Celebrations: The nine-day-long festival marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, his brother Lord
Balbhadra and sister Subhadra to the Gundicha temple. They are taken in their respective chariots to the
Gundicha temple, place of their aunt’s house. During this traditional procession, the chariots carrying
these deities are pulled by thousands of devotees. The celebration ends nine days later with Bahuda Yatra

or return journey to their temple.

In Gujarat, 139th annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath began in Ahmedabad. The historic Rath Yatra
began from 400 years old Lord Jagannath Temple in Jamalpur area of old city.
18 April: World Heritage Day
Apr 18 2016
Every year World Heritage Day is being observed across the world on April 18. It is also known as
International Day for Monuments and Sites.
Objective: To create consciousness to preserve and protect the precious assets and cultural heritage
across the world. It marks the need of shielding the historical monuments and sites located in every part
of the world by making joint efforts at international level.
2016 Theme: ‘The Heritage of Sport’. It was decided by the International Council for Monuments and Sites
(ICOMOS) in the backdrop of Rio Olympics 2016 to be hosted in August 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Background
The first world Heritage Day observed on April 18, 1982 by the International Council of Monuments
and Sites (ICOMOS) in Tunisia. It was approved in 1983 by UNESCO.
The aim of this day is to make people aware about several awareness camps are organized across the
world to protect the precious assets and cultural heritage across the world.
Sajibu Cheiraoba festival celebrated in Manipur with religious fervor
Apr 9 2016
The traditional festival of Sajibu Cheiraoba was celebrated in Manipur to mark the beginning of a new
year with cultural gusto and religious fervor.
The festival is mainly observed on the first lunar day of the lunar month Sajibu (March/April) by the
Meiteis community, a majority ethnic group of Manipur.
Celebrations
On the occasion of Sajibu Cheiraoba, People clean and decorate their houses and arrange joint family feast.
Traditional cuisines are offered to local deities at the entrance gates of the houses.
After meals, people start climbing nearby hills in the afternoon to offer prayers. Thabal Chongba, a local
folk dance is also being organized at different locations of Manipur valley.
Kerala Tourism campaign wins Golden City Gate Award
Mar 12 2016
Kerala Tourism’s campaign titled ‘New Worlds’ has won the prestigious ‘Golden City Gate Award’ at the at
the Internationale Tourismus-Börse Berlin (ITB-Berlin) 2016.
The multimedia campaign contains three short films directed by reputed Malayalam filmmaker Anwar
Rasheed. It has won the silver prize in 2016 Das Golden Stadttor or Golden City Gate, which is dubbed as
the Oscar of tourism communication.
Key facts
The New Worlds campaign was launched internationally by UNWTO Secretary General Taleb Rifai
at the World Travel Mart in London.
It portrays the importance of responsible tourism initiatives under taken in Kerala which have led to
several life-changing stories and have become the heart of it.
The film showcases tourists visiting local communities, sharing home-made cuisine and watching
and engaging in cultural performances, demonstrates.
It also attempts to present a real and authentic environment and a set of true stories of
transformation and preservation involving tourism and the local communities in Kerala.
Earlier, the Kerala Tourism had won the ‘Ulysses’ Prize of the UNWTO for its contribution as a global
leader to sustainable tourism.
About Golden Gate Award
Golden Gate Award is entitled as Oscar in tourism communication. It is awarded every year for the
ultimate recognition in global tourism communication at the ITB-Berlin which is the world’s leading
travel trade show.
Traditional Chapchar Kut festival celebrated across Mizoram

Mar 5 2016
The traditional festival of Chapchar Kut of the Mizos was celebrated across the north-eastern state of
Mizoram and also in the Mizo-inhabited areas in the neighbouring states.
It is a spring festival celebrated every year in month of March with great fervour and gaiety by Mizos after
completion of their Jhum operation (shifting agriculture by clearing jungle by burning and cultivating in
remnants of burning).
Mizos celebrate this festival by dressing in their traditional attire and dancers danced to the tune of
typical music and songs. Popular Mizo dances including Cheraw, Chheihlam, Sarlamkai and Khuallam are
performed by various cultural groups. Chapchar Kut Festival is estimated to have started in 1450-1700
A.D. in a village called Suaipui.
42nd Khajuraho Dance Festival begins in Madhya Pradesh
Feb 24 2016
The 42nd edition of world famous Khajuraho Dance Festival began at Khajuraho in Chhatrapur District in
Madhya Pradesh.
It is a cultural festival that highlights the richness of the various Indian classical dance styles. It showcases
performances of some of the best exponents in the field of Bharathanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Odissi,
Manipuri and Kathakali.
The performances includes Documentaries, Short Films related to fine Arts and Classical dance forms that
are performed in open-air auditorium usually in front of the Chitragupta Temple dedicated to Surya (Sun
God) and Vishwanatha Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva
Khajuraho Temple: It is a group of Hindu and Jain Temples in Madhya Pradesh build by Chandela Dynasty
between 950 and 1050 AD. They are UNESCO World heritage Site.
Chettinad Cotton Saree gets Indian Handloom tag
Feb 9 2016
The Union textile Ministry has bestowed the Indian Handloom Brand tag on Chettinad cotton saris for
its unique designs and identity.
This tag was bestowed under the India Handloom Brand Scheme after checking its various quality
parameters stipulated by the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
The Ministry also has offered a logo to use the brand for marketing the product. It will also enable weavers
of these saris to promote the material in the international market.
About Chettinad cotton saree
Chettinad cotton saree is also known as “kandaangi”. It is the traditional sari of the Chettinad region
in Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu.
It is characterised by its silk-like texture, contrasting border and body colours with intricate designs
along the border.
It has unique pattern with bold checks, stripes and contrasting hues that reflects dramatic and
spontaneous use of colours.
These sarees are already popular in few North Indian states of India and are also popular in other
countries such as Singapore and Malaysia.
30th Surajkund International Crafts Mela begins at Faridabad
Feb 1 2016
The 30th edition of Surajkund International Crafts Mela has begun at Faridabad in Haryana after it was
formally inaugurated by Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.
Telangana is the theme State of this edition of Mela and the two focus countries are China and Japan.
Key facts
The Mela is organized by the Surajkund Mela Authority and Haryana Tourism in collaboration with
Union Ministries of Tourism, Textiles, Culture and External Affairs Ministry.
The 15-day festival will be showcasing the richness and diversity of handicrafts, handlooms and
cultural heritage of the country.
About 300 artistes from Telangana will also perform different folk arts and shall showcase its unique
culture and rich heritage.
At least 23 countries are taking part in this edition of Mela and shall host performances by
international folk artistes from Japan, Egypt, Congo, Maldives, Thailand, Vietnam, Russia,
Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan.
Surajkund Crafts Mela: It is annual cultural festival hosted since 1987. The Mela showcases some of the
most exquisite handlooms and handicrafts of India and culture.
Losar festival beings in Ladakh region of J&K
Dec 14 2015
The festival of Losar has begun in Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir to mark the beginning of New
Year in this Himalayan region.
10 day long festival began with illumination of religious and residential places and by visiting monasteries
for prayer. Losar is Tibetan word for ‘new year’ and this festival is an important social and religious
celebration in Ladakh.
Traditional Celebrations of festival
Following the old tradition, people from Ladakh visit graveyards of ancestor family members and
pray for peace for the departed soul.
Special food items during the festival are prepared to mark the occasion including guthuk, the soup
with nine ingredients, khura are being served.
People visit each other for exchange of Losar greetings. On third day of the festival is people wait for
the night to see the first moon of the New Year
In India, Losar is also celebrated by Yolmo, Sherpa, Tamang, Gurung, and Bhutia communities residing in
different regions in the country.
Annual Hundred Drums Wangala Festival begins in Meghalaya
Nov 13 2015
Annual Hundred Drums Wangala Festival has begun on a cultural fervor at Asanang near Tura town in
Meghalaya.
The three day-long started with the arrival of ten Wangala Dance Troupes from various parts of Garo Hills.
Significance of Wangala Festival
Wangala Festival is an annual post-harvest festival of the Garos tribes of North east India. Generally
celebrated in the second week of November every year.
It is a thanks giving ceremony to Misi Saljong, which is also known as Pattigipa Ra∙rongipa (The
Great Giver) for blessing the people with rich harvest of the season.
Events held on occasion: An inter-locality tug-of-war was also held on the first day along with District
Industrial Exhibition. Indigenous sports and Ajea, Grika and Doroa competitions and Rugala ceremony are
held on the second day. On concluding day Hundred Drums Dance competition is held.
Seong-Jin Cho wins 2015 International Frederic Chopin Piano competition
Oct 21 2015
South Korea’s Seong-Jin Cho has won the prestigious 17th international Frederic Chopin Piano
competition.
This year’s competition was held in Poland’s capital Warsaw and around 78 young pianists took part from
20 different countries.
Charles Richard-Hamelin from Canada won the second prize and was followed by Kate Liu of the United
States at third place.
About International Frederic Chopin Piano competition
The competition is a piano competition held in Warsaw, Poland. It is devoted entirely to the works of
pianist Frédéric Chopin a single composer in this
It was started in 1927 and since 1955 held every five years. It carries cash prize of 33,600 US dollars.
Russia’s Yulianna Avdeeva had won the 16th edition of the competition in 2010.

Australian art gallery to return 2000 year old Buddha idol to India
Oct 13 2015
Canberra based art gallery in Australia has agreed to return a 2,000-year-old Indian-origin sculpture of
Gautama Buddha back to India.
The Sitting Buddha sculpture which was displayed in this gallery has its roots traceable to Mathura in
Uttar Pradesh. The sculpture is made of sandstone is an image and depicts very unique art of the ancient
Mathura region.
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) played important role in negotiating the legality of returning this
statue.
Earlier, Germany had returned 10th century Durga idol in Mahishasuramardini avatar to India which had
gone missing from a temple at Pulwama in Kashmir in 1990s.
Renowned Flautist N. Ramani passes away
Oct 9 2015
Renowned Carnatic flautist Dr. Natesan Ramani passed away in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. He was 82 and died
due throat cancer.
He was known for introducing the long flute in Carnatic music and had developed his own inimitable style
in the field of flute music especially on Venu flute.
About Dr. Natesan Ramani
Ramani was born 15 October 1934 in Tiruvarur city of Tamil Nadu which is the birthplace of Trinity
of Carnatic music.
He had first learnt music from his maternal grandfather Sri Aazhiyur Narayanaswami Iyer who was
a well-known flute artist and singer.
Ramani had performed his first concert on All India Radio (AIR) in 1945. Later his talent had helped
him to reach the highest point in his career and become an artist of international fame.
Awards and Honours: Sangita Kalanidhi title (1996) of the Music Academy, Sangeetha
Kalasikhamani award (2007) etc.
First conference on contemporary relevance of Bhagvad Gita held in UK
Sep 25 2015
A first of its kind conference on the contemporary relevance of the Bhagvad Gita was held London, United
Kingdom.
The conference was organised by Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) and High Commission of
India. It was organised in in collaboration with the Department of the Study of Religions at the School of
Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London.
The conference aimed to deal with the innumerable questions that exercise and confound through
Bhagvad Gita and help to tap unique transformational energy.
During this conference, Indian and British experts came together for the understanding of Eastern
mysticism. Experts and historians from India and Britain also came together for the two-day sessions
which included various aspects such as Impact of Bhagvad Gita on Modern Sanskrit Writings, Bhagvad
Gita and Yoga and The Bhagvad Gita – Timeless Values for Today.
Celebration of weeklong Ladakh Festival begins at Leh
Sep 21 2015
Celebration of the week long annual Ladakh Festival has begun at Leh town in Ladakh region of Jammu
and Kashmir.
The festival has been organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department in collaboration with the
concerned stakeholders. The festival is celebrated to extend the short tourism season of Ladakh.
During the festival traditional, ethnic, religious, cultural life of the people in Ladakh region is presented
before the visiting tourists. Apart from it photo exhibition, handicraft exhibition, polo match and
traditional archery match and music concert are organized.
The Ladakh festival was started in 1980’s in order to promote tourism in Ladakh region and make it one of
the tourist destination of the country.
Classical dancer Kalamandalam Sathyabhama passes away

Sep 14 2015
Kalamandalam Sathyabhama, doyen of classical dance form Mohiniyattam passed away in Palakkad
district of Kerala. She was 77.
She was regarded as a matriarch of Mohiniyattam and was well-known for her experimental reforms in
this classical dance form which helped to preserve and popularise the traditional art form.
About Kalamandalam Sathyabhama
Kalamandalam Sathyabhama was born at Shoranur in 1937 and had started learning classical dance
at a very early age of 12.
Her debut on major stage was in 1955 during the silver jubilee of the Kalamandalam (Kerala
Government’s Deemed University of Art and Culture).
She also was the first woman Vice Principal of Kerala Kalamandalam and later, became its Principal
till she retired in 1992. She was also well versed in other classical dances of Kerala.
Publications: She had published a treatise on Mohiniyattam (in Malayalam) by name, Mohiniyattam
– History, Techniques and Performance.
Awards and Honours: Padma Shri (2014), Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award (1976), Sangeet
Natak Akademi Award (1994), Kerala Government’s Nruthya Natya Puraskaram (2005), Kalamandalam
Award (1988) etc.
Personal life: She was married to Kalamandalam Padmanabhan Nair (died in 2007) who was widely
regarded as the master of Kathakali grammar.
About Mohiniyattam dance
Mohiniyattam is a classical dance form from Kerala and is considered as a very graceful form of
dance meant to be performed as solo recitals by women.
It believed to have originated in 16th century and is one of the eight Indian classical dance forms
recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi.
The word Mohiniyattam literally means ‘dance of the enchantress’ and it has been derived from the
words Mohini meaning a woman who enchants onlookers and aattam meaning graceful and
sensuous body movements.
The vocal music of Mohiniyattam involves variations in rhythmic structure known as chollu and the
lyrics are mixture of Sanskrit and Malayalam.
Union Government to develop Bodhgaya as Spiritual Capital
Sep 7 2015
Union Government is going to develop Bodhgaya in Gaya district of Bihar as Spiritual Capital of the
country in order to serve the civilisational bond between India and the Buddhist world.
It was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi while addressing delegates from 90 countries on the
concluding day of the International Buddhist Conclave held at Bodh Gaya.
In his address Prime Minister called Gautam Buddha as India’s crown jewel and called Bodh Gaya as the
land of enlightenment.
About Bodhgaya
Bodhgaya is a religious site and place of pilgrimage associated with the Mahabodhi Temple Complex
in Gaya district of Bihar.
Significance: It is famous because it place where Gautama Buddha (Founder of Buddhism) is said to
have obtained Enlightenment (Bodhimandala) under the peepal tree which is known as the Bodhi
Tree.
For Buddhists, Bodh Gaya is the most important place and one of the main four pilgrimage sites
related to the life of Gautama Buddha. Other three are Kushinagar, Lumbini, and Sarnath.
In 2002, Mahabodhi Temple located in Bodh Gaya was accorded with UNESCO World Heritage Site
status.
India wins UNESCO Award for conserving Sree Vadakkunnathan Temple in Kerala
Sep 2 2015

India has won the UNESCO prize ‘Award of Excellence’ 2015 for the conservation efforts of the Sree
Vadakkunnathan Temple in Kerala.
The top award was given in the Asia Pacific Heritage Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation.
This award recognises the conservation effort of sacred sites and its tangible attributes with conservation
techniques emphasising on architecture and construction. These scared sites employ age-old rituals and
conservation techniques drawn from vastu shastra focusing on construction and architecture.
It should be noted that, UNESCO’s “Award of Merit” in Heritage Award was bestowed upon 150-year-old
Sino-Portuguese former residence of a Thai aristocrat, which now has been converted into a local museum
and historic inn.
About Sree Vadakkunnathan Temple
It is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva located in Thrissur district of Kerala.
It has monumental towers on all four sides and also has a Kuttambalam displaying vignettes carved
in wood.
It is a classic example of the architectural style of Kerala and has Mural paintings depicting various
episodes from Mahabharata.
The temple along with its mural paintings has been declared as a National Monument under the
Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958.
SC stays Rajasthan HC’s decision declaring ‘Santhara’ ritual illegal
Sep 1 2015
The Supreme Court (SC) of India has stayed Rajasthan High Court’s order declaring Santhara, a Jain ritual
of voluntary and systematic fasting to death illegal.
The stay order was given by SC Bench comprising Chief Justice of India H.L. Dattu and Justice Amitava
Roy.
What is Santhara?
Santhara is a religious custom of Jain religion that embraces voluntary death in order to purge oneself of
bad ‘karma’ and attain ‘moksha’. The practitioners of this custom take an oath to stop eating until they die
of starvation. This oath is taken in consultation with a guru and follows the most detailed of procedures.
Background
Earlier in August 2015, Rajasthan High Court had banned the practice of Santhara by declaring it as a
criminal offence and mentioning it as illegal in the eyes of law.
The High Court in its ruling had made this religious practice a punishable offence under section 306
(abetment of suicide) and Section 309 (attempt to commit suicide) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Constitutional Validity
Article 25: The Rajasthan High Court in its ruling had mentioned that as per Article 25, religious
liberty and freedom is only limited to the scope of essential religious practices of particular religion.
So practice of Santhara is not essential religious practice of Jainism.
Article 21: The Rajasthan High Court also mentioned that Protection of life and personal liberty does
not include Right to die. So it is illegal from this point of view.
The ruling of High Court was based on public interest litigation (PIL) filed by advocate and human rights
activist Nikhil Soni to ban this centuries old Jain ritual claiming it as social evil and should be considered
as suicide.
Jain Community’s Viewpoint
Jain community clearly mentioned that the practice of Santhara is an integral part of Jainism and has
been mentioned in religious texts. It is also an intrinsic practice to a person’s ethical choice to live with
dignity until death and not an exercise in trying to achieve an unnatural death.
IS damages ancient Temple of Bel in Syria’s Palmyra
Sep 1 2015
Islamic State (IS) militant group has destroyed part of historical Temple of Bel in the ancient site of
Palmyra in Syria.
The ancient temple was dedicated to the Palmyrene gods and was one of the best preserved parts of the
historical sites of Palmyra.

Key facts
The ancient site of Palmyra in ancient times was one of the most important cultural centres and
now has monumental ruins of great ancient city.
The site boasts a number of monumental projects including more than thousand columns and more
than 500 tombs.
The art and architecture of this city is blend of Greco-Roman techniques with combination of local
traditions and Persian influences, dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries.
The ancient city of Palmyra is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was a major tourist attraction of
Syria before it descended into civil war.
Earlier in August 2015, IS militant group had destroyed the ancient Temple of Baalshamin in same region
of Palmyra.
Haryana government to constitute board to preserve Saraswati Heritage Area
Aug 12 2015
Haryana Government has decided to constitute the Haryana Saraswati Heritage Development Board
(HSHDB) in a bid to promote and preserve the various archeo-cultural facets of the Saraswati Heritage
Area (SHA).
A decision to this effect was taken in the Cabinet meeting of the State presided by Chief Minister Manohar
Lal Khattar in Chandigarh.
Haryana Saraswati Heritage Development Board (HSHDB)
HSHDB will conduct meticulous field work to understand and unearth the past and the present
content of the Saraswati Heritage Area in Haryana.
Data collected from the field work will be used for exposition of cultural patterns and values of SHA.
The registered office of the HSHDB will either located in Chandigarh or Panchkula.
The board will also publish books, monographs, journals and also biographies of scholars who have
contributed to the study of SHA.
The board will maintain effective liaison with the UNESCO, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and
other related National and International Institutions for participation and exchange of scholars and
researchers working in the area of Saraswati Heritage.
Rs. 10 crore provision has been made for establishment and smooth functioning of the HSHDB.
Tendong Lho Rum Faat Festival of ethnic Lepcha tribe of Sikkim celebrated
Aug 8 2015
An annual festival of Tendong Lho Rum Faat of the ethnic Lepcha tribe of Sikkim was celebrated with
traditional devotion and fanfare across the state.
About Tendong Lho Rum Faat festival
It is one of the oldest festivals of the Lepchas, celebrated annually in the month of August in Sikkim.
It is three day festival and on the first day, the tribe worship the Mount Tendong which is located in
South Sikkim by offering of prayers.
Significance of Festival: According to the folklore, Mt. Tendong had saved the Lepcha people during
the great deluge which had flooded the entire Mayel Lyang country (now known as Sikkim).
Celebrations: Special programme of puja, folk songs and dances are organized to mark the festival.
Various cultural and literary programmes are held in the state to commemorate the occasion.
On the concluding day, traditional Lepcha food, ornaments and costumes are displayed.
Kerala Tourism’s Muziris Heritage Project wins 2015 PATA Award
Jul 20 2015
Kerala Tourism has won 2015 Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) award in the ‘Heritage & Culture’
category for its Muziris Heritage Project.
The award bestowed in recognition project efforts which aim at restoring and conservation of historical
and cultural significance of the ancient town and its uniqueness and impact on local community located in
stretches from Ernakulam to Kodungalloor in Thrissur district of Kerala.
Ancient Muziris
Muziris was an ancient seaport and urban centre which dates from at least the 1st century BC and
located at the mouth of the Periyar River in present south Indian state of Kerala.
It was a key centre for trade in ancient times between southern India on one side and Egyptians,
Phoenicians, Greeks and Roman Empire on the other side.
Its historic importance has been mentioned in the bardic Sangam literature and a number of
classical European historical sources.
Muziris Heritage Project: It is an ambitious tourism venture of Tourism Department of Kerala in order to
reinstate the historical and cultural significance Muziris. It was started in 2006 and also covers various
other historically significant sites and monuments in central Kerala.
About Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) award
The awards are given by Pacific Asia Travel Association and sponsored by Macau Government Tourism
Office (MGTO). Presented every year in recognition of the achievements of 25 separate organisations and
individuals.
It should be noted that PATA is a membership association working to promote the responsible
development of travel and tourism in the Asia Pacific region.
Annual Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra begins in Puri, Odisha
Jul 20 2015
The annual Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra, largest-ever religious congregation in Odisha has begun at Puri
district on 18 July 2015.
This edition of yatra is the Millennium’s first Nabakalebar Rath Yatra meaning all the Lords of Puri
Jagannath Temple will get new avatar after nineteen years. Thus, Nabakalebara marks the re-embodiment
of deities.
The Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) is 9 day-long event I which congregation of more than 50 lakh devotees
from across India and abroad come together. It is celebrated annually to mark the annual visit of Deities
Lord Jagannath, brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra who are taken in their respective chariots.
These deities will be brought out of the temple and will be taken by chariot to Gundicha temple which is
place of their aunt’s house and indicates the feminine creative aspect of divinity. They will stay in the
Gundicha temple for a week and then return.
During this traditional procession, the chariots carrying these deities will be pulled by thousands of
devotees.
While in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Rathyatra of Lord Jagannath began from the 400-year-old Jagannath
temple in Jamalpur area. The tradtional ‘Pahind-rituals’ i.e. the symbolic path cleaning on chariot of Lord
Jagannath at temple was performed by Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel.
Sinhastha Kumbh Mela begins in Trimbakeshwar, Nashik
Jul 15 2015
World’s largest religious congregation Sinhastha Kumbh Mela has begun at Trimbakeshwar, Nashik
district of Maharashtra.
The traditional religious ceremony began with flag hoisting ceremony and was followed by holy dip in
Godavari River at Trimbakeshwar and Nashik by thousands of people.
The ceremony was presided by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh in Trimbakeshwar while Chief
Minister Devendra Fadnavis presided over the ceremony at Nashik.
Sinhastha Kumbh Mela is once-in-a-12 year event which is marked by participation of ‘sadhus’ from
different denominations (known as akhadas) and lakhs of devotees.
The religious congregation will be two months event in which more than 10 crore pilgrims and sadhus
across the world are expected to take the holy dip in Godavari River in belief to wash away their sins. The
number of pilgrims at the various ghats will see a massive rise during Shahi Snan (royal bath) which will
take place on 29th, 13th, 18th August and 25th September.
Maharashtra government has made elaborate for this religious congregation which includes security
arrangements with the help of CCTV cameras, community radio services, loudspeakers, and helplines for

pilgrims.
Legendary music director MS Viswanathan passes away
Jul 15 2015
Doyen music composer Manayangath Subramanian Viswanathan passed away in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
He was 87.
The veteran musician had composed music for over a thousand films in Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam and
was fondly called as the King of Light Music (Mellisai Mannar in Tamil).
About MS Viswanathan
He was born on 24 June 1928 in Elapulli in Palakkad district of Kerala.
He had entered the film career as a child artist starring as the Bala Murugan in the film Kannagi. He
had composed music for over 1700 films in Tamil, Malayalam and Kannada.
Some of his best films include Sumaithaangi, Paasamalara, Aayirathil Oruvan, Server Sundaram and
Enga Veetu Pillai.
He has the distinction of having worked with 4 chief ministers from the film world. They are MG
Ramachandran, NT Ramarao, M.Karunanidhi and J.Jayalalithaa.
Awards: Kalaimamani (A jewel for art) of Tamil Nadu Government and several other prestigious
music awards.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa has conferred the Thirai Isai Chakravarthy (in Tamil means
The Emperor of Cine Music) title.
‘Buddha In A Traffic Jam’ wins best original screenplay award at the Madrid Film Festival
Jul 13 2015
‘Buddha In A Traffic Jam’ film has won the best original screenplay in a Foreign Language award at the
Madrid International Film Festival.
The film is a political satire directed by filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri. It stars Arunoday Singh and Mahi Gill
in a lead role along with Anupam Kher, Pallavi Joshi and introduces Anchal Dwivedi.
Besides this award category, the film was also nominated in other two categories viz. the Best Foreign
Language Film and Best Lead Actress in a Foreign Language Film to actress Mahi Gill in the Madrid
International Film Festival.
Earlier the movie was premiered in the 2014 edition of Mumbai International Film Festival in the India
Gold category. The film was also bestowed awards and was the opening film in the 7th Global Film Festival
2015.
UNESCO names 24 new world heritage sites
Jul 9 2015
39th session World Heritage Committee (WHC) of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organization, (UNESCO) has inscribed 24 new sites into the World Heritage List.
Decision in this regard was taken at WHC’s annual meeting held in Bonn, Germany. In this meeting total
36 sites were examined and 24 sites were granted world heritage status. With this the total number of
world heritage sites has increased to 1,031.
24 new sites are
Blue and John Crow Mountains (Jamaica).
Tusi sites (China),
Christiansfeld, a Moravian Church Settlement (Denmark).
Par Force Hunting Landscape in North Zealand (Denmark).
Climats, terroirs of Burgundy (France).
Champagne Hillsides, Houses and Cellars (France).
Speicherstadt and Kontorhaus District with Chilehaus (Germany).
Susa (Iran).
Cultural Landscape of Maymand (Iran).
Necropolis of Beth She’arim—a Landmark of Jewish Revival (Israel).
Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale (Italy)
Meiji Industrial Revolution: Iron and Steel, Shipbuilding and Coal Mining (Japan).
Baptism Site “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” (Al-Maghtas) (Jordan).
Baekje Historic Areas (South Korea)
Aqueduct of Padre Tembleque Hydraulic System (Mexico)
Great Burkhan Khaldun Mountain and its surrounding sacred landscape (Mongolia)
Rjukan-Notodden Industrial Heritage Site (Norway)
Rock Art in the Hail Region (Saudi Arabia).
Singapore Botanical Gardens (Singapore).
Ephesus (Turkey).
Diyarbakir Fortress and Hevsel Gardens Cultural Landscape (Turkey).
Fray Bentos Cultural-Industrial Landscape (Uruguay).
The Forth Bridge (United Kingdom).
San Antonio Missions (United States).
China opens Nathu La border post as 2nd route for Kailash-Mansarovar yatra
Jun 22 2015
China has opened 2nd land border crossing in Tibet via Nathu La, Sikkim to allow the Indian pilgrims for
Kailash-Mansarovar yatra.
The new route is in addition and alternative to the existing Lipulekh Pass route located in Uttarakhand
which was only route earlier. This route was damaged in the devastating Uttarakhand floods in 2013.
The border crossing at Nathu La is located 4,000 metres above sea level. This route will facilitate
comfortable travel for Indian pilgrims by buses compared to previous route.
By this route, pilgrims will be travel by bus to Shigatse in the Tibet Autonomous Region, around 1500 kms
away from Nathula to reach their ultimate destination the Kailash–Mansarovar.
It should be noted that the opening of this route was officially announced during Prime Minister Narendra
Modi’s visit to China in May 2015.
Vocalist Sanjay Subrahmanyam selected for ‘Sangita Kalanidhi’ award 2015
Jun 22 2015
One of the foremost south Indian classical vocalists, Sanjay Subrahmanyam has been selected for the
‘Sangita Kalanidhi’ award 2015.
It will be bestowed upon him when he will preside over the 89th annual conference of the Academy which
will be held between December 15, 2015 and January 1, 2016.
With this, he is seventh artistes to be conferred with the award before completing 50 years of age. Others
are Ariyakudi Ramanuja Iyengar, Maharajapuram Viswanatha Iyer, Musiri Subramania Iyer, G.N.
Balasubramaniam, Semmangudi R. Srinivasa Iyer, M.L. Vasanthakumari and M. Balamuralikrishna
About Sanjay Subrahmanyam
He had started performing Carnatic music from 1987.
By profession he is Charted Accountant but in 2000 became full-time musician.
Awards: Gaana Padhmam (2013), Vani Kala Sudhakara (2010) and the title Kalaimamani by Tamil
Nadu Government (2006) etc.
About Sangita Kalanidhi award/title
It is a prestigious award bestowed annually upon an expert of Carnatic Music by the Madras Music
Academy.
The award’s name has been derived from Sanskrit which means treasure of Music and art in English.
This honour is considered one of the highest awards in Carnatic music.
First International Yoga Day observed globally
Jun 22 2015
The first International Yoga Day (IYD) was celebrated across the world on 21 June 2015.
This edition of IYD was led by India and was marked by 192 countries across the globe. Prime Minister
Narendra Modi led thousands of participants of all ages at Rajpath yoga event.
The celebrations were also held at the United Nations headquarter in New York which was led by External

affair minister Sushma Swaraj.

Numerous mass events were held in various cities across the world including New York London, Tokyo
and Sydney.
Background
The idea of celebrating the International Yoga Day was pitched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at
the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2014.
In December 2014, UNGA had unanimously adopted India-led resolution to observe 21st June as
‘International Day of Yoga’. This resolution was adopted under the agenda of ‘Global Health and
Foreign Policy’.
21st June was selected because it represents one of the two solstices and it is the longest day in the
Northern Hemisphere which has special significance in many parts of the world.
First translated version of Hindu scripture Bhagavad Gita released in China
Jun 19 2015
Translated Chinese version of Bhagavad Gita, a sacred ancient Indian scripture was released in China.
This is the first a well-known Hindu ancient religious text was published in China. The book was released
by Indian Ambassador to China Ashok K Kantha during an international yoga conference.
It was translated in Chinese by Professor Wang Zhu Cheng and Ling Hai of Zhejiang University in
Shanghai and was published by Sichuan People’s Publications.
The foreword for the book was written by K Nagaraj Naidu who had served as the consulate general at the
Indian Consulate in Guangzhou city of China.
Some of India’s ancient are well-known in China. It includes ancient Buddhist scriptures which were
introduced to them by celebrated Chinese traveler Huen Tsang after he had visited India in the 7th
century.
Earlier in 2014, scholars from India and China published an Encyclopaedia on the age-old cultural contacts
between both countries which had showcased their history to over 2000 years.
Punjab celebrates 350th years of foundation of Sri Anandpur Sahib
Jun 18 2015
Punjab state is celebrating the 350th years of foundation of holy city Sri Anandpur Sahib.
The celebrations began after Chief Minister Prakash Singh Badal dedicated the 81 feet high ‘Khanda’,
installed at Sri Anandpur Sahib to the humanity.
The installed Khanda symbolizes the glorious legacy and rich cultural heritage of this holy city of bliss on
its 350th foundation day.
Facts about Sri Anandpur Sahib
The holy city Sri Anandpur Sahib was founded in 1665 by the Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur, ninth Guru of
Sikhs. Later in 1699, Khalsa Panth was created here by the Tenth Guru Sri Guru Gobind Singh.
Anandpur Sahib is situated in a city in Rupnagar district (Ropar) of Punjab and located on the lower
spurs of the Himalayas surrounded with the river Sutlej forming a border on the south west.
It is commonly known as the holy City of Bliss which is one of the most important sacred places for
Sikhs. It is closely linked with their religious traditions and history of Sikhism.
V K Singh inaugurates first India-China Yoga College at Yunnan Minzu University, China
Jun 13 2015
Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs V K Singh inaugurated first India-China Yoga College at
Yunnan Minzu University in Kunming, China.
This is first Indian government institution related Indian spiritual art form i.e. Yoga in China inaugurated
ahead of the first UN Yoga Day to be observed on June 21.
The Yoga College was established in lines with the MoU for establishing the Yoga College signed during
the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to China in May 2015.
This college seeks to provide certification courses in the Indian spiritual art with them Indian teachers
who are going to help in curriculum development and training. Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR)
will provide two teachers to the university.
Apart from this, Minister also unveiled the bust of Rabindranath Tagore at the University to mark his
150th birth centenary. It should be noted that Nobel laureate Tagore is most popular Indian literary
personality whose works are widely translated and read in China.
Three day Singhey Khababs Sindhu festival kicks off in Ladakh
Jun 13 2015
Three day long tourism promotional Ladakh Singhey Khababs Sindhu (also known as Sindhu Darshan)
Festival has begun in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ladakh region.
It was inaugurated by Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed to promote the tourism potentials of
Ladakh. The inaugural function of the festival was organised this morning on the bank of the Indus River
near Shey village in Ladakh.
In this edition of festival, local traditions and cultures like folk’s songs and dances will be presented along
with customs, traditional archery and polo games and local handicrafts.
Singhey Khababs Sindhu festival was started in 2001 by Union government to promote Lakakh as tourists’
destination in the country. Since then it is organised annually.
It is celebrated to endorse the Indus River (Sindhu River) as a symbol of the communal harmony and unity
of India. It also promotes cultural values and tourism in the region.
The Festival starts with a colourful ceremony on the bank of the Indus River. Since it establishment it has
helped Ladakh region to become most preferred tourist’s destination and also as a popular spot for
shootings films.
Musicians, film-maker chosen for Sangeet Natak Akademi fellowships and Akademi Puraskar for
year 2014
Jun 13 2015
Sangeet Natak Akademi has announced the names of recipients of Sangeet Natak Akademi fellowships
(Akademi Ratna) 2014 and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards (Akademi Puraskar) 2014.
The names of the recipients were finalized in the meeting of General Council of the Sangeet Natak
Akademi which is also known as the National Academy of Music, Dance and Drama.
Akademi Fellowships which carries cash prize of 3 lakh rupees were conferred on
R. Janakiraman- Musicologist.
S. Sathyu– film-maker.
Vijay Kichlu– Classical singer
Tulsidas Borkar– Musician
With this the total strength of Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellows has gone up to 40.
Recipients of Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards (Akademi Puraskar) for the year 2014 are
In the field of music
For Hindustani vocal: Ashwini Bhide Deshpande Nath Narelkar and Ustad Iqbal Ahmed Khan.
Hindustani instrumental music: Pandit Nayan Ghosh (tabla) and Ronu Majumdar (flute).
Carnatic instrumental music: Neyveli Santhanagopalan (Carnatic vocal), T.A. Kaliyamurthy (Thavil),
Sukanya Ramgopal (Ghatam) and Dwaram Durga Prasad Rao (violin).
In the field of dance
Nine persons have been selected in this category. They are
Adayar Janardanan (Bharatanatyam), Amusana Devi (Manipuri), Uma Dogra (Kathak), Sudhakar
Sahoo (Odissi), Vedantam Radhesyam (Kuchipudi).
Jagru Mahto (Chhau), Anita Sharma (Sattriya), Varanasi Vishnu Namboothiri (Kathakali) and Navtej
Singh Johar (contemporary dance).
In the field of drama/ theatre
Eight theatre persons have been chosen in this category. They are
Asgar Wajahat, Surya Mohan Kulshreshtha, Chidambar Rao Jambe, Debshankar Haldar, Ramdas
Kamath, Amod Bhatt, Manjunath Bhagwat Hostota and Amardas Manikpuri.
In the field of Traditional/tribal music/folk/theatre/dance and puppetry

In this category eight artistes have been selected. They are

Puran Shah Koti, KKalamandalam Ram Mohan, . Kesavasamy, Abdul Rashid Hafiz, Reba Kanta
Mohanta, Ramdayal Sharma, K. Shanathoiba Sharma and Thanga Darlong.
About Sangeet Natak Akademi
Established: in 1953
Function: Responsible for preservation and promotion of the performing arts of the country.
It also recognizes the contribution of outstanding musicians, dancers and theatre artists by
bestowing them its Fellowships and Awards.
Its aim is to create benchmarks in the practice of the performing arts.
Trios of 3800-year-old statuettes found in Vichama, Peru
Jun 10 2015
Researchers in Peru have discovered trios of statuettes which belong to some 3,800 years ago.
They were discovered by research team led by archaeologist Ruth Shady. The final discovery
announcement was made by the Peruvian Cultural Ministry in Lima.
The mud statuettes were found inside a reed basket in a building at the ancient city of Vichama in
northern Peru.
Key Facts
These statuettes are believed to be created by the ancient Caral civilization some 3,800 years ago.
They were Probably were used in religious rituals performed before breaking ground on a new
building.
Among discovered statuettes, two are of the figures consisting of a naked man and woman painted
in white, black and red. It is believed that they represent political authorities.
The third statue is of women with 28 fingers and red dots on her white face. It is believed that she
represent a priestess.
Researchers also have unearthed two mud figurines of women’s faces wrapped in cloth and covered
with yellow, blue and orange feathers.
The Caral civilization had emerged some 5,000 years ago and had lived in Peru’s Supe Valley. They have
left behind impressive architecture including pyramids and sunken amphitheaters.
2,000-year-old aqueduct unearthed in Israel
May 26 2015
An ancient aqueduct dating back 2,000 years ago was unearthed near Har Homa in in East Jerusalem city
of Israel.
The discovered lower aqueduct was used in ancient times to transport water into the city of Jerusalem.
Key facts
Constructed during the rule of kings in the Hasmonean dynasty (140 B.C. to 37 B.C). It was one of
Jerusalem’s principal sources of water.
It is 21 km long with starting point located at the En ‘Eitam spring, near Solomon’s Pools, south of
Bethlehem.
Water through it flowed down a gentle slope to Jerusalem, passing through the Israel’s modern-day
cities of Umm Tuba, Sur Bahar, East Talpiot and Abu Tor.
During the Ottoman period, around 500 years ago a terra cotta pipe was installed inside the channel
in order to protect the water.
Apart from this, other sections of the extensive aqueduct were unearthed in the past in
Armon Ha-Natziv tunnels located in the City of David.
Around the Sultan’s Pool along the west side of Mount Zion in Jerusalem.
On the Sherover promenade in southern Jerusalem.
Pope Francis canonises two Palestinian nuns
May 18 2015
Pope Francis has canonized Marie Alphonsine Ghattas and Mariam Bawardy from Palestine.
The canonization ceremony was held in Vatican’s St Peter’s Square and was attended by Palestinian
President Mahmoud Abbas and over 2,000 Christian pilgrims from the region.
Both of them are 19th Century nuns who lived in Ottoman-ruled Palestine. They are also are the first
Arabic-speaking Catholic saints to Canonized.
Sister Marie-Alphonsine Danil Ghattas was founder of the Sisters of the Most Holy Rosary of Jerusalem
and Maryam Baouardy had founded a Carmelite convent in Bethlehem. It should be noted that this move
is seen as a token of Vatican support for dwindling Christian communities in the Middle East.
Note: Cannonisation is the act by which the Catholic Church or Eastern Orthodox Church declares a
deceased person as a saint. After canonization the person acquires the title of Saint.
DD, CCTV sign an agreement for exchange of art, culture programmes
May 15 2015
Doordarshan and China Central Television (CCTV) have signed an agreement for exchange of art, culture
and development television programmes.
The agreement was signed between both parties during the first leg of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s
three nation visit to China, Mongolia and South Korea.
On behalf of India Doordarshan, CEO of Prasar Bharathi signed the agreement in Beijing.
This agreement enables both Doordarshn and CCTV to share programmes on their networks free of cost.
Under the agreement Doordarshan will provide programmes pertaining to art, culture and tourism.
While, CCTV in turn will exchange human interest, development programmes and success stories.
The exchange of programmes will begin by the end 2015 and both networks will also take up co-
production works for this initiative. Thus by sharing of television programmes will enable people of both
countries to come closer and understand each other’s culture deeply.
President Pranab Mukherjee confers Presidential Awards for Classical Tamil
May 15 2015
President Pranab Mukherjee conferred the Presidential Awards for Classical Tamil for the years 2011-12
and 2012-13. It was bestowed on scholars who have made outstanding contribution to the development of
Classical Tamil language and literature.
Tolkappiyar Award for lifetime achievement in Classical Tamil was given to SV Shanmugam for year
2011-12 and R Krishnamurthi for year 2012-13.
Kural Pitam Award was given to Eva Maria Wilden of Germany for 2011-12.
Young Scholar Awards was presented to E. Ezhilvasanthan, K. Jawahar and K. Iyyappan for 2011-12 while
for the year 2012-13 was given to R. Venkatesan, A. Sathish, M.R. Devak, U. Alibava and B. Jaiganesh.
About the Presidential Awards for Classical Tamil
These awards have been instituted by the Ministry of Human Resources Development (HRD).
It gives recognition to distinguished scholars who have made outstanding contribution to the
development of Classical Tamil language and literature.
The award carries citation and shawl apart from a cash award of Rs. 5 lakh for Tolkappiyar Award
and Kural Peedam awardees. While, Rs. 1 lakh for young Scholar Awardees.
Daniel Mookhey, first Indian-origin lawmaker in Australia to take oath on the Gita
May 13 2015
Daniel Mookhey has become first Indian-origin Member of Parliament (MP) from the Australian state of
New South Wales to be sworn in to Australian parliament on the Hindu religious text, the Bhagavadgita.
Recently, he was chosen by the Australian Labour Party to fill the casual vacancy in the New South Wales
upper house. Thus, making him state’s first politician of Indian background.
Daniel Mookhey was born in Blacktown suburb in New South Wales to Indian parents who had migrated
to Australia from Punjab in 1973.
He holds three university degrees and currently is working as a consultant to unions, charities and
community groups.
President Pranab Mukherjee inaugurates Namaste Russia festival in Moscow
May 11 2015
President Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated Namaste Russia, a festival of Indian culture in Moscow during
the last leg of his tour in Russia.

Namaste Russia will be six month long festival i.e. form May to November 2015. The festival seeks to
enthrall the Russian audience with cultural events from India.
The festival is being hosted under the patronage of Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and
Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation. Russian State Concert Company SODRUZHESTVO and
Jawaharlal Nehru Cultural Centre at the Embassy of India in Moscow are the organisers of the festival.
As part of the inauguration of this festival, Kathak dance performance was given by a team of dancers
choreographed by Padma Bhushan Kumudini Lakhia.
This festival seeks to enhance and boost cultural bonds that build solid bridges of friendship and
understanding between peoples of both countries.
The festival will be toured in various regions in Russia that will help people living in different regions of
Russia to deepen their engagement with contemporary and classical Indian Culture. As part of this
festival, an exhibition of Indian painting and sculpture will be also organized.
Prime Minister releases commemorative coin on Swami Chinmayananda Saraswati
May 8 2015
Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a commemorative coin to mark the birth centenary of Swami
Chinmayananda Saraswati in New Delhi.
Swami Chinmayananda was a renowned Hindu spiritual leader and teacher who had inspired the
formation of a global nonprofit organisation called Chinmaya Mission to spread the knowledge of Advaita
Vedanta.
Advaita Vedanta is the nondual system of thought found in the Upanishads, which epitomise the
philosophical teachings of the Vedas.
About Swami Chinmayananda
He was born as Balakrishna Menon on 8 May 1916. He was known for teaching Bhagavad gita, the
Upanishads, and other ancient Hindu scriptures.
Since 1951, he had spearheaded a global Hindu spiritual and cultural renaissance that popularised
the religion’s esoteric scriptural texts and also taught them in English all across India and abroad.
He had authored around 95 publications that mostly include commentaries on the major
Upanishads and Bhagavad gita.
He was also a visiting professor of Indian philosophy at several American and Asian universities. He
also had conducted university lecture tours in many countries.
He died on 3 August 1993 at age 77 in San Diego, California of United States.
Nepal earthquake damages world’s oldest Buddhist shrine Swayambhunath Stupa
May 4 2015
Nepal’s devastating 7.9-magnitude earthquake on April 25 has partially damaged Swayambhunath Stupa
located in Kathmandu which is believed to be the world’s oldest Buddhist shrine.
During this earthquake several other monuments situated in the vicinity of the 2,000 year-old Lichchhavi-
era Buddhist shrine have been damaged but the main stupa has remained intact during the earthquake.
Swayambhunath Stupa is one of the main Buddhist shrine and most visited tourist sites in Nepal. The
stupa is believed to have originated at a time when Kathmandu was inhabited by a deity called Manjushri.
It was drained out a big lake by cutting the Chobar hill situated in southern Kathmandu thousands of
years ago.
Three other Buddhist monasteries were also damaged including Jyoti Kirti Bihar, Karmapa Bihar, Maha
Bihar, Pratapur, Shantipur, Anantapur and Manjushree temple.
The earthquake also has threatened the existence of one of the 7 UNESCO-listed world heritage sites of
Kathmandu.
Famous Hindu shrine Pashupati and House of Living Goddess Kumari in Kathmandu has remained
unharmed in the earthquake.
However, 300 year-old Kashtha Mandap temple situated in the heart of Kathmandu city and 200 year-old
Dharahara tower are among the important heritage sites which were damaged by the earthquake.
International Day of Yoga logo launched in New Delhi

Apr 29 2015
The logo for International Day of Yoga was launched in New Delhi on 29 April 2015.
It was launched by Union External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Union Minister of State (MoS) for
AYUSH Shripad Yesso Naik.
The logo was selected by the Committee of Yoga experts, which was constituted by Union Ministry of
AYUSH and has been approved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Facts about International Day of Yoga logo
Reflects peace and harmony for the humanity which is the essence of Yoga.
Folding of both hands in the logo reflects the union of individual consciousness with universal
consciousness.
It also reflects a perfect harmony between mind and body, man and nature and the holistic approach
to health and well-being.
The sun in the logo symbolise the source of energy and inspiration. While the brown leaves
symbolise the earth element.
The green leaves symbolise the nature and blue the fire element.
Background
The idea to observe 21 June as the ‘International Day of Yoga’ was proposed by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi in September 2014 during his speech at United Nations General Assembly (UN-GA).
In December 2014, UN-GA had unanimously had adopted an India-led resolution to observe 21 June
as the ‘International Day of Yoga’.
The resolution was passed within a record time of 75 days. It was also first resolution in which 177
countries had become co-sponsors and was a world record.
Haryana Government gives yoga guru Ramdev Cabinet Minister Status
Apr 13 2015
Haryana government on 13 April 2015 decided to give status equivalent to state Cabinet Minister to yoga
guru Ramdev.
Earlier in January 2015, state government had appointed him as its brand ambassador to promote yoga
and ayurveda.
By promoting yoga and Ayurveda, Haryana state government is seeking amalgamation of tradition and
modernity in order to turn Haryana into a model state based on Indian values and traditions.
In this regard state government is also planning to include yoga in the school syllabus and develop herbal
forest in the state under the supervision of yoga guru Ramdev which will include thousands of species of
ayurvedic herbs.
State government will also construct yogshalas in all the towns and about 6,500 villages of the state to
make Yoga a compulsory subject in Haryana’s schools.
88th Akhil Bhartiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan begins in Ghumaan, Punjab
Apr 4 2015
88th Akhil Bhartiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan (All India Marathi Sahitya Sammelan) on 3 April 2015
began in Ghumaan village in Gurdaspur district of Punjab.
It was inaugurated by Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari along with the Chief Minister
Parkash Singh Badal.
The three-day long sammelan is dedicated to Marathi Saint Bhagat Namdev (Sant Namdeo). In this
conference large contingent of Marathi litterateurs is going to take part.
The President of 88th Akhil Bhartiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan is Dr. Sadanand More. Apart from
inaugurated the sammelan, foundation stone of Bhagat Namdev Degree College was also laid in the
Ghumaan village.
Village Ghumaan is the place where Marathi Saint Bhagat Namdev had spent 18 years of his life and gave
valuable teachings to the society.
It is believed that in Ghuman, Sant Namdeo had composed his shlokas in Awadhi, Marathi and Punjabi. His
61 shabads were included in holy scripture of the Sikhs i.e. in Guru Granth Sahib.
Kailash Vajpeyi, Renowned Hindi poet passes away
Apr 3 2015
Kailash Vajpeyi, renowned Hindi poet passed away on 1 April 2015 in New Delhi due to cardiac arrest.
He was one of the prominent poets in a group known as San saatth ke baad ki kavita (Post-1960 poetry)
that had shaped Hindi literature.
About Kailash Vajpeyi
Kailash Vajpeyi was born at Hamirpur district of Uttar Pradesh in 1936.
He had completed his PhD in Hindi at the age of 24. He began his career as a journalist and later
taught at Delhi University.
In his entire career, 28 books were published including 14 volumes of poetry.
Some of his notable works includes Sankrant, Dehant Se Hatkar, Teesra Andhera and Sufinama.
Awards- He was conferred with Sahitya Akademi award (2009) for his work Hawa mein hastakshar
(Signature in the air). Lucknow University had awarded him with Vachaspati title.
Mariyam Asif Siddiqui, Muslim girl wins Bhagwad Gita contest
Apr 3 2015
Mariyam Asif Siddiqui, a 12-year-old Muslim girl from Mumbai has secured first place Shrimad Bhagwad
Gita Champion League.
She won the first prize in an inter-school competition for explaining the teachings of the holy book-
Bhagwad Gita. The Shrimad Bhagwad Gita Champion League was organised by International Society for
Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in March.
In this contest, around 4,500 students from 195 schools had participated. They were given the English
version of Bhagwad Gita for a month for preparation purpose for explaining the teachings of the holy
book. The competition included recitation of the Gita in English along with a written test.
Amaravathi named as new capital of Andhra Pradesh
Apr 2 2015
Andhra Pradesh government has approved Amaravathi as name of the new capital city of the state
coming up in the Vijayawada-Guntur region.
The name Amaravathi was chosen in view of the historical and spiritual significance as it was ancient seat
of Satavahana ruler’s kingdom.
Decision in this regard was taken by Andhra Pradesh Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister N
Chandrababu Naidu. Apart from this, cabinet also approved the first phase of the master plan prepared by
Singapore government.
Facts about ancient Amaravathi city
Amaravathi is located on the banks of river Krishna. It was the capital seat of Satvahana rulers for
400 years who ruled 2nd century BCE to 3rd century CE.
The city derives its name from Lord Amareswara temple in the village. It is also known as ‘Dakshina
Kashi’ (Kashi of the south).
It also has Buddhist significance. It is believed that Lord Buddha had visited the city. It is also
believed that King Ashoka and famed Chinese traveller Hsuan Tsang have visited the city.
Artist Bharti Kher awarded with France’s Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters
Mar 25 2015
Indian contemporary artist Bharti Kher was awarded with France’s highest cultural award Knight of the
Order of Arts and Letters (Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres).
She was bestowed the prestigious honour for her contribution to contemporary art landscape by French
ambassador to India Francois Richier in New Delhi.
Bharti Kher’s artworks span several mediums like painting, sculpture and installation. She is renowned for
her remarkable experimentation with bindis which is recognised as her signature style.
Her 14-feet- high sculptural ‘An Absence Of Assignable Cause’ is among the finest works from the
experiment which interprets heart of the blue sperm whale.
During her career she had done numerous solo exhibitions of her artworks around the world.
About Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters
It is French governments highest cultural award and in French also known as Chevalier des Arts et
des Lettres.
The award is bestowed on persons who have distinguished themselves by their creativity in the field
of art, culture and literature or for their contribution to the influence of arts in France and
throughout the world.
Renowned Malayalam poet Yusuf Ali Kechery passes away
Mar 21 2015
Renowned Malayalam poet Yusuf Ali Kechery passed away on 21 March 2015 in Kochi, Kerala. He was 81
and had been suffering from bronchial pneumonia.
Kechery was one of the leading poets of the modern era Malayalam poetry and was known for his mystic
lyrics on Hindu gods.
About Yusuf Ali Kechery
He was born on 16 May 1934 in Kechery, Thrissur district of Kerala. Kechery had studied Sanskrit
under well-known scholar K P Narayana Pisharody.
Kechery along with ONV Kurup and P Bhaskaran had dominated Malayalam films as a top-notch
lyricist. His debut as lyricist was in 1971 with Malayalam film Sindooracheppu.
In his career he had penned hundreds of songs known for their mystic and romantic charm with a
semi-classical touch.
Apart from being poet and lyricist, he was also film producer and director. His directorial debut was
Maram (Tree) in 1973 and his first film as a producer was Sindooracheppu (1971).
Kechery also had served as assistant secretary of Kerala Sangaeetha Natak Academy and also served
as the president of Kerala Sahitya Academy.
Awards- He was awarded a National Film Award for Best Lyricist for a Sanskrit song written for the
Malayalam film Mazha (Rain) in 2000, Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award(1985), Kerala State Film Award
for Best Lyrics in year 1993, 1994 and 1998.
3rd Indian Panorama Film Festival begins in Shillong
Mar 13 2015
The third edition of Indian Panorama Film Festival has begun in Shillong, Meghalaya. The three day
festival was inaugurated by Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Dr. Mukul Sangma.
The film festival kick-started by screening of Dr. Prakash Baba Amte: the Real Hero directed by Samruoddhi
Porey.
The film festival is organized by the Directorate of Film Festivals of Union Ministry of Information and
Broadcasting in collaboration with Meghalaya Department of Information and Public Relations.
This edition of Indian Panorama Film Festival seeks to showcase films from the Northeast to encourage
film production and talent in the region.
The festival will be held in Shillong from the 12th to the 14th of March and total of 12 films will be screened
in this festival.
The films that will be screened during the festival are Drishyam (Malayalam), December 1 (Kannada),
Kuttram Kadithal (Tamil), Ankhon Dekhi (Hindi), Othello (Assamese), Ri (Khasi), Teenkahon (Bengali) and
Ranjana Ami Ar Ashbona (Bengali).
Mr. Veerappa Moily selected for Saraswati Samman 2014
Mar 10 2015
Senior Congress leader and Former Union Minister Mr. M. Veerappa Moily will receive the Saraswati
Samman 2014 for his Kannada poem ‘Ramayana Mahanveshanam’.
The award would make Mr. M. Veerappa Moily the second Kannada author to receive the honour after S. L.
Bhyrappa (2010).
‘Ramayana Mahanveshanam’ was first published in 2007 in Kannada and later was translated into English,
Hindi, Telugu and Tamil. The poem explores the ‘Ramarajya’ or the true principle of the ‘ideal State’ from
a secular and modern point of view.

About Saraswati Samman (सरस्वती सम्मान)
Established: 1991 by the K. K. Birla Foundation.
Award carries: cash price of Rs 10 lakh, a citation and a plaque.
It is annual award, awarded to persons for their outstanding prose or poetry literary works in any
Indian language listed in Schedule VIII of the Constitution of India.
Eminent Hindi author Harivansh Rai Bachchan was the first recipient of this award for his
autobiography in four volumes
IS militants demolish ancient Hatra site in Iraq
Mar 8 2015
Islamic State (IS) militants have destroyed the ruins at the ancient city of Hatra located in south-west of
Mosul in Northern Iraq.
City of Hatra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site was founded 2,000 years ago, in the days of the Parthian
Empire.
It is home to numerous temples and sculptures dedicated to gods including Apollo and Poseidon. It is also
famous for its striking pillared temple which blends Graeco-Roman and eastern architecture.
Earlier, IS militants had bulldozed the ancient city of Nimrud, an Assyrian city founded in the 13th
Century BC.
It should be noted that, the destruction of ancient cities comes in the city of Mosul, Iraq’s second-largest
city which is in control of IS since June 2014 including nearby areas. This region has nearly 1,800 of the
Iraq’s 12,000 registered archaeological sites.
IS militants are destroying these heritage Islamic Arab cities as part of its extremists propaganda.
Adya Sharma, cultural icon and pioneer of mobile theatre in Assam passes away
Feb 23 2015
Adya Sharma, a cultural icon and pioneer of mobile theatre in Assam passed away in Nalbari town, Assam.
He was 86.
Sharma was pioneer in bringing innovation in the technical aspects of mobile theatre which made it more
attractive and capable of staging more complex themes.
He was born in 1929 and was famously known as Guruji in the artist circle of Assam. He had made his
debut into mobile theatre in 1966 through Purbajyoti Theatre.
He was also well known painter and sculpture artist in Assam.
He was awarded Bishnu Prasad Rabha Award by Assam Government and Pranab Barua Award for
contribution to the cultural world. Assam government also had honoured him with artiste’s pension.
He is also founder of Ranghar, an organisation dedicated to promote paintin in Nalbari.
First National Tribal Festival Vanaj concludes in New Delhi
Feb 18 2015
The first National Tribal Festival ‘Vanaj’ concluded on 18 February 2015 in New Delhi.
It was organised by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and was inaugurated by the Union Minister of Tribal
Affairs Jual Oram on 13 February 2015 at the Indira Gandhi National Center for Arts (IGNCA), New Delhi.
Key facts
The aim of weeklong National Tribal Festival was to bridge the gaps of social divide and promote
tribal culture in India.
The purpose of the festival was to uplift the quality of tribal lives of the country in order to conserve
and promote their distinctive cultures by providing them national platform.
More than 900 folk and tribal artists from states like Assam, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal
Pradesh, Jharkhand, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Nagaland, Odisha, Rajasthan, Sikkim,
Tamil Nadu and West Bengal participated in it.
Maiden edition of the festival showcased the rich diversity of Tribal culture, art, painting, music,
dance, tribal medicine, tribal food, and a special attraction- tribal cuisine.
The events of this festival were held at three venues in Delhi which included Indira Gandhi National
Centre for the Arts, Baba Kharak Singh Marg and Central Park in Connaught Place.
Tribal market was also recreated at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, which provided
tribals from different states platform to sell the rural crafts, herbs and medicines etc.
Nagesh Kukunoor’s film Dhanak honoured at 65th Berlin Film Festival
Feb 16 2015
Filmmaker Nagesh Kukunoor’s film Dhanak has been honoured with The Grand Prix of the Generation
Kplus International Jury for the best feature-length film at the 65th Berlin International Film Festival (also
known as the Berlinale).
The movie, which was premiered at the festival also has received a honour of special mention with the
children’s jury at the festival.
About film Dhanak
Film’s story revolves around the relationship between a 10-year old girl Pari and Chotu, her 8-year
old brother who live in a picturesque village.
Directed by Nagesh Kukunoor
The film stars: Hetal Gada and Krrish Chhabria.
Produced by: Elahe Hiptoola, Nagesh Kukunoor, Manish Mundra
French artist Paul Gauguin’s painting breaks sale record at nearly $300m
Feb 8 2015
A painting of two Tahitian girls named as Nafea Faa Ipoipo (When Will You Marry) by the French artist
Paul Gauguin has been sold for 300 million dollars.
It makes the painting as the most expensive work of art ever sold. This painting was painted in 1892 and
was sold to a museum in Qatar.
This painting broke the previous highest price record for a painting by Paul Cezanne, sold in 2011 for a
reported 158 million dollars to Qatar.
About Paul Gauguin
Paul Gauguin was French Post-Impressionist artist of 19th century.
He was recognized for his experimental use of color and synthetist style that were distinguishably
different from Impressionism.
His work had influenced the French avant-garde and many modern artists, such as Pablo Picasso
and Henri Matisse.
Gauguin’s art became popular after his death and many of his paintings were in the possession of
Russian collector Sergei Shchukin.
Acclaimed sculptor and artist Mrinalini Mukherjee passes away
Feb 3 2015
Acclaimed Indian sculptor and artist Mrinalini Mukherjee has passed away in New Delhi. She was 65.
She was best known for her sculptures, crafted using knotted hemp ropes and cast bronzes.
Mrinalini Mukherjee
Ms. Mukherjee was daughter of seminal Santiniketan artists Benode Behari and Leela Mukherjee.
She had studied painting at M S University in Baroda between 1965 and 1970 and later undertook a
post diploma in mural design under K G Subramanyan.
She was the first Indian artist whose work was displayed at the Sydney Biennale in 1986.
In 1994, her art sculptures were displayed in the Museum of Modern Art, Oxford and later travelled
all over United Kingdom.
In 2013, her work was included in the The Body in Indian Art, an exhibition curated by Naman Ahuja
at Bozar in Brussels.
Bharat Rang Mahotsav begins in New Delhi
Feb 2 2015
The 17th edition of Bharat Rang Mahotsav has begun in New Delhi. It is a theatre festival, organized by
National School of Drama (NSD).
It was inaugurated by Culture Minister Dr Mahesh Sharma and National Award-winning actor and NSD
alumnus Om Puri.
This year’s edition will showcase more than 200 national and international theatre performances.
International performances will include theatre productions from countries like Poland, Israel, USA,
France and Bangladesh.
Bharat Rang Mahotsav
It was established in 1999 as an annual theatre festival of National School of Drama (NSD).
Originally it was founded to show case, works of Indian theatre practitioners but later it got
international fame and attracted international performers as well.
Now it is acknowledged as the largest theatre festival of Asia.
National School of Drama (NSD) is India’s premier theatre training institute operating under the
aegis of Union Ministry of Culture.
29th Surajkund International Crafts Mela begins in Haryana
Feb 1 2015
29th Surajkund International Crafts Mela has begun in Faridabad district of Haryana.
It was inaugurated by Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar along with Chief Minister of
Chhattisgarh, Raman Singh.
The theme state this year is Chhattisgarh.
Lebanon is the Partner Nation of this year’s Mela and it will be open till 15 February 2015.
Key Highlights
In this Mela, Haryana will present its tribal heritage and culture especially from forests of Bastar
which is still well-preserved.
While, the artistes from Chhattisgarh will showcase various folk dances namely Panthi, Rawat
Nacha Pandwani, Chaitra, Kaksar, Saila and Soowa.
Lebanon as partner nation of the Mela will unveil its ancient heritage of creating crafts in style.
The 18 countries are participating in this year’s Mela. They are Lebanon, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Afghanistan,
Bangladesh, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Georgia,
Tajikistan, Kuwait, Qatar, Thailand, Uganda and Syria.
Suraj Kund mela
It was started in 1987 and is held every year since then from February 1-15 and .
Traditional craftsman (artists, painters, weavers and sculptors) from all parts of the country
participate in this annual celebration named as the “Surajkund Crafts Mela” or “Surajkund designer’s
Village”.
Eminent singer Shekhar Sen appointed as Chairman of Sangeet Natak Akademi
Jan 29 2015
Eminent singer, composer, lyricist and actor Shekhar Sen has been appointed as the chairman of the
Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA).
His appointment was announced by Union Ministry of Culture and will have term five years with
immediate effect.
This post was vacant since September 2014, after then Chairman Leela Samson had resigned.
Shekhar Sen
Since 1983, as a singer, lyricist and composer, he has done many research oriented musical
programmes including Dushyant Ne Kaha Tha, Madhya Yugeen Kaavya, Pakistan Ka Hindi Kavya,
Meera Se Mahadevi Tak.
He also has rendered many significant bhajan albums.
He is famous for his mono act musical plays Tulsi, Kabeer, Vivekananda, Sanmanti, Saahab and
Soordas.
His performances have been acclaimed in India and abroad where he has performed.
Awards: He has received prestigious awards including the Padma Shri (2015), Safdar Hashmi
Puraskaar (2001) by Sangeet Natak Academy of Uttar Pradesh, Shantaram Samman (2008) by Rajya
Hindi Sahitya Academy of Maharashtra.
You may read more about Sangeet Natak Akademi here

Union Government launches HRIDAY scheme
Jan 21 2015
Union government has launched a Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY)
scheme to preserve and rejuvenate the rich cultural heritage of the country.
Union governments ambitious Rs 500 crore HRIDAY project was launched by Urban Development
Minister Venkaiah Naidu in New Delhi.
In the initial phase, 12 heritage cities have been identified which will be rejuvenated and developed under
HRIDAY.
The 12 cities are: Amritsar, Varanasi, Gaya, Puri, Ajmer, Mathura, Dwarka, Badami, Velankanni,
Kanchipuram, Warangal and Amaravati.
HRIDAY- Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana
It aims to bring urban planning, economic growth and heritage conservation together for heritage
cities.
It also seeks beautification in an inclusive and integrated manner with focus on cleanliness,
livelihoods, skills, safety, security, accessibility and faster service delivery of heritage cities.
Heritage management plan (HMP) will be prepared for the identified cities which will outline
heritage resources and develop policies to guide their conservation, restoration, future use and
development.
It will seek to improve last-mile connectivity heritage sites by documentation, conservation of areas,
providing more facilities for women, senior citizens and differently abled citizens.
HRIDAY will be dovetailed with the Tourism Ministry’s Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual
Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) scheme which has an outlay of Rs 100 crore for augmentation of
infrastructure at pilgrimage sites across the country.
Tribal Food Festival-2015 begins in New Delhi
Jan 17 2015
Tribal Food Festival-2015 has begun in New Delhi. It was inaugurated by Union Tribal Affairs Minister
Jual Oram.
It is 3 day event organized by Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) on
behalf of the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
The main objective of Tribal Food Festival-2015 is to introduce and create awareness on the varieties of
ethnic Tribal Foods to the people of Delhi. It also seeks to provide additional source of income to the
tribals.
In this unique event, tribals from various States including Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh,
Chhattisgarh, Nagaland and Odisha have participated.
Pope Francis declares Indian priest Joseph Vaz as saint in Colombo
Jan 14 2015
Pope Francis has declared 17th century Indian priest and missionary Joseph Vaz as saint in Colombo, Sri
Lanka.
Pope announced it while addressing a holy mass for 5 lakh people at the Gall Face Green in
Colombo. Joseph Vaz has become first priest from Sri Lanka, canonised as saint.
About Joseph Vaz
He was born on 21 April 1651 in Benaulim Goa (then Portuguese India) and was ordained as priest in
1676 in Goa.
Later in 1687, he moved to Sri Lanka and worked for revival of Catholic Church in a period of Dutch
repression of Catholics.
Since then he had founded several churches and chapels, helping revive the faith of Catholics by
Calvinists in Sri Lanka.
He died in 1711 and was beatified by Pope John Paull II in Colombo on 21 January 1995.

Odhisa’s Sun Temple gets ASI’s Adarsh Monument tag

Jan 13 2015
Sun Temple at Konark, Odhisa has been the coveted with Adarsh Monument tag by the Archaeological
Survey of India (ASI).
Along with Sun Temple, three other monuments of eastern India were given Adarsh Monument tag. They
are
Hazarduari Palace in Murshidabad district of West Bengal.
Vaishali-Kolhua in Bihar.
Rang Ghar in Sibsagar (Sivasagar) district of Assam.
At present, 25 out of 3,680 protected monuments in India have been selected under the Adarsh Smarak
Yojana.
It includes monuments like Taj Mahal, Khajuraho, Qutab Minar and Red Fort which have highest number
of tourists visiting them.
By awarding this monument Adarsh Monument tag, Central government gives them special attention in
order to boost international tourism.
Under Adarsh Smarak Yojana, ASI provides amenities of international standards like washrooms, drinking
water, signs, cafeteria, audiovisual centres, Wi-Fi connectivity, interpretation centres and encroachment-
free areas around these monuments.
Konark SunTemple: It is a 13th century temple of Odisha, built by Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga
Dynasty. It is also known as Black Pagoda.
It’s a World Heritage Site. It is considered as architectural marvel for which Odisha, best known
worldwide.
January 12 being observed as National Youth Day
Jan 12 2015
In India, January 12 is being observed as National Youth Day.
This day marks birth anniversary of social reformer, philosopher and thinker Swami Vivekananda.
On this day, numbers of functions are being organised nationwide to celebrate the birth anniversary of
Swami Vivekananda.
Background
Union Government in 1984 had declared and decided to observe the birthday of Swami Vivekananda i.e. 12
January as a National Youth Day every year from 1985 onwards.
Significance of day: It will help to propagate the philosophy and the ideals of Swami Vivekananda for
which he lived and worked. It will also help and act as a great source of inspiration for the Indian Youth.
About Swami Vivekananda
Swami Vivekananda was born on 12 January 1863 and died on 4 July 1902.
He was born Narendranath Dutta and was chief disciple of the 19th century saint Ramakrishna
Paramhamsa and the founder of the Ramakrishna Math and the Ramakrishna Mission.
He was one of the most prominent figures of India who introduced Indian philosophies of Vedanta and
Yoga to the “Western” World.
His inspiring speech given at World’s Religions Parliament held at Chicago in 1893 is famous.
People from 11 countries take part in First Buddha Heritage Walk in Bihar
Jan 11 2015
People from 11 countries have taken part in First Buddha Heritage Walk in Bihar.
In this heritage walk over 500 pilgrims from 11 countries walked through a 13-km-long forest trail.
They walked through the trail which Lord Gautam Buddha had taken to reach Rajgir from Bodh Gaya
around 2,543 years ago.
It was organized by Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC).
Buddhist monks from Japan, China, South Korea, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Vietnam, Taiwan, Indonesia,

Malaysia, Brazil, and India took part in it.

Some facts about this route
As per scholars, this well documented route is among such several routes taken by Buddha during
his 45 years of preaching in various parts of India.
It passes through lush green forest, hills and valleys and several ancient Stupas can be seen in the
along the route.
It is also believed that Bimibsara (emperor of the Magadha Empire from 542 BC till 492 BC) took
Lord Buddha to Venu Van near Rajgir on this route and offered him place to stay as a gift. Buddha
had stayed there during his visit.
World Hindi Day is being observed on 10 January every year
Jan 10 2015
Every year 10 January is being observed World Hindi Day. Objective of this day is to promote use of Hindi
language abroad.
To mark the occasion, special functions are being organized. It is usually, observed by Union Ministry of
External Affairs (MoEF) and Indian Missions abroad.
Background of World Hindi Day
On this day in 1975, the First World Hindi Conference was organized in Nagpur by then Prime Minister
Indira Gandhi. It was held from 10 to 12 January 1975.
In first conference, then Prime Minister of Mauritius Seewoosagur Ramgoolam was Chief Guest. This
conference was attended by 122 delegates from 30 countries.
Since then every year 10th January is being observed as the World Hindi Day.
3 day Flamingo Festival begins near Pulicat Lake in Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh
Jan 10 2015
3 day Flamingo Festival has begun at the famous brackish water of Lake Pulicat in Nelapattu Bird
Sanctuary located at Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh. It will be hosted in Doravari Satram mandal, in
Nellore district.
This festival provides a unique opportunity for people, particularly ornithologists, environmentalists, bird
watchers, forest and tourism officials
To study the bio-diversity of Pulicat and Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary
To initiate measure to conserve the bio-zones for future generations in this area.
It also promotes eco-tourism in the district. In this three day festival, several cultural and entertainment
programmes will take place.
Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary
The Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary, considered one of the biggest habitats for some hundreds of pelicans
and other birds.
It is located about 20 km north of the Pulicat Lake on the Andhra Pradesh-Tamil Nadu border.
This sanctuary spread in an area about 459 hectares.
Every year from October to March, different species of migratory birds, roosting migrants and some
rare and endangered species from various parts of the world visit the habitat.
This sanctuary plays important role in nesting of various birds especially migratory birds.
Birds found in this sanctuary are: Flamingos, Pelicans, Siberian Storks, Open Billed Storks, Night
Herons, Egrets, Little Cormorant, Golden Backed Wood Pecker, Spotted and Ring Doves, King
Fishers, Painted Storks, White Necked Storks, Spoon Bills and other species of birds.
The villagers in area nearby to this sanctuary treat the migratory birds with affection and provide
protection to them.
19th National Youth Festival begins in Guwahati, Assam
Jan 8 2015
The 19th National Youth Festival has begun in Guwahati, Assam. This festival coincides with the 152nd
birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.
Theme of this edition of youth festival is Youth for Clean, Green and Progressive India. It aims to spread to
spread national integration and harmony.

Events: It is 5 day event, which will provide platform to the young talents to perform their level best in
music and cultural events.
During this festival, different competitions, exhibitions, cultural programs, and seminars will be held.
In this festival sports persons including Virender Sehwag, Sushil Kumar and Mary Kom along with several
young MPs are participating to motivate the young minds towards nation building. This youth festival is
also likely to give a boost to the tourism industry of the state.
It will showcase various shades of youth talent through Yuva Kriti, Food Festival, Young Artist Camp,
Youth Convention, Suvichar and Adventure activities.
Besides these there will be other competitive and non-competitive events between youths of different
states.
Opening ceremony: It was attended by Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, Union Sports Minister
Sarbananda Sonowal and Minister of State for Home state Kiren Rijiju at Nehru Stadium in Guwahati.
About National Youth Festival
It is an annual gathering of youth during National Youth Week i.e. from 12 to 16 January. It is celebrated to
mark birth anniversary of youth icon Swami Vivekananda.
It is organized by Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with one of the State
Governments.
13th Pune International Film Festival(PIFF) will begin on Jan 8 with theme ‘War against War’
Dec 31 2014
The 13th Pune International Film Festival (PIFF) will be held at Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad in
Maharashtra from January 8 to 15. This edition of film festival will focus on the theme “War against War”.
It is jointly organised by the Maharashtra State Government and Pune Film Foundation. In this edition of
festival around 350 will screened with of more than 200 films from 75 countries.
In this festival, films will be screened in 13 sections which include world competition, Marathi
competition, international student competition, MTDC short film competition, country focus,
retrospective, Indian Cinema, tribute, kaleidoscope, Films and documentaries from Films Division, global
cinema, films restored by National Film Development Corporation, war against war and present Marathi
Cinema.
Tamu Lhochhar festival being observed in Nepal on 30th December
Dec 30 2014
Tamu Lhochhar festival is being observed on 30th December with gaiety and full fervor in Nepal which
marks new year among different communities.
It is the biggest cultural festival of the Mahayana sect of Buddhism and generally being observed by the
Gurungs at different places in Nepal including in the Kathmandu Valley.
The people of Tamang, Sherpa, Gurung, Magar, Thakali, Jirel, Nesyangwa, Bhote, Dura and Lepcha
communities and others celebrates this festival.
The Gurung community mark this festival as Tamu Lhochhar while the Tamangs and other communities
celebrate it as Sonam Lhochhar on the first day of waxing moon in the Nepali month Magh. While Sherpas
and Bhotes celebrate it as Gyalpo Lhochhar.
On this day, the junior members of the community and family receive blessings from seniors and greet
each other wishing for good health, happiness and prosperity.
People of these communities who are living and working abroad also celebrate this festival with
exchanging New Year greetings and joy.
Kerala Government lays foundation stone for Global Artists Village
Dec 30 2014
Kerala government has laid foundation stone for the first government-run ‘Kalagramam’ i.e Global Artist
village in the country at Kakkananpara in Kannur district of Kerala.
The foundation stone was laid by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.

Key facts of Global Artists Village

Global Artists Village i.e. Kalagramam is a project planned by the Kerala Lalithakala Akademi.
This planned facility will provide artists from different parts of the country and abroad to stay and
work in the place surrounded by swathes of scenic beauty.
The art village project will be implemented in phases and the first phase of the project will be
completed in four months.
The art village project envisages construction of four living rooms, mess house, conference hall and
other amenities in the first phase of the project. It will provide accommodation facilities for the
artists visiting there.
It is being developed on a 3.5-acre plot. State government has allocated Rs.75 lakh for the project and
further going to extend it to Rs.3 crore.
Central Government to launch scheme for conservation of heritage and development of 12 cities
Dec 22 2014
Central government is planning to launch scheme for conservation of heritage and development of 12
cities across the country. It was announced by Union Urban Development Minister M Venkaiah Naidu.
For this scheme government had allocated Rs. 500 crore in the Union Budget 2014 and it will be rolled out
in January 2015.
Under this scheme, 12 cities will be covered under the National Heritage City Development and
Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY).
The 12 cities are: Amritsar, Varanasi, Gaya, Puri, Ajmer, Mathura, Dwarka, Badami, Velankanni,
Kanchipuram, Warangal and Amaravati.
From Andhra Pradesh and Telangana towns selected are Amaravati from Guntur district and Warangal
which have rich heritage and culture.
Warangal: It was the capital of the Kakatiya dynasty.
Amaravati: It is situated on the banks of river Krishna and was the capital of Satavahanas in the 2nd
Century. It is also a major Buddhist centre.
About Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY)
It aims to bring urban planning, economic growth and heritage conservation together for heritage
cities.
It also seeks beautification in an inclusive and integrated manner with focus on cleanliness,
livelihoods, skills, safety, security, accessibility and faster service delivery of heritage cities.
Heritage management plan (HMP) will be prepared for the identified cities which will outline
heritage resources and develop policies to guide their conservation, restoration, future use and
development.
It will seek to improve last-mile connectivity heritage sites by documentation, conservation of areas,
providing more facilities for women, senior citizens and differently abled citizens.
Thus it will help to create improved connectivity platform and access to tourists.
Losar festival beings in Ladakh
Dec 22 2014
The festival of Losar has begun in Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir. 10 day long festival began with
illumination of religious and residential places.
This festival marks the beginning of New Year in Ladakh and it is an important social and religious
celebration in Ladakh. Losar is Tibetan word for ‘new year’.
Traditional Celebrations of festival:
Following tradition, people from Ladakh visit graveyards of ancestor family members and pray for
peace for the departed soul.
Special food items during the festival are prepared to mark the occasion. People visit each other for
exchange of Losar greetings.
In India, Losar is also celebrated by Yolmo, Sherpa, Tamang, Gurung, and Bhutia communities residing in

different regions in the country.

5th edition of Gyanodaya Express sets off for North-East
Dec 19 2014
Delhi University’s fifth edition of Gyanodaya Express has set off for North-East with 870 students and
teachers aboard.
Dharohar-Gyanodaya Express was flagged off from Safdarjang Railway Station by Union Minister of State
for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju and Sarbanda Sonowal, MoS Youth Affairs and Sports.
The educational trip started from December 18 and will end on December 29. It aims to enrich students
about the culture and heritage of the North east region and will cover all eight northeastern states –
Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura.
Besides learning about the culture and heritage of the northeastern states, students as part of trip will also
meet representatives of local universities as well as senior functionaries of the North eastern states
during the trip.
As a part preparation for the heritage tour, DU earlier had offered foundation courses in Nepali and
Bengali, which are widely spoken in Sikkim and Tripura.
After the trip, Delhi University is planning to publish a book, ‘Dharohar: The glory of the Northeast’ on
the experiences of the students on the journey as well as the projects churned out by them.
Gyanodaya Express: It was started by Delhi University in 2012 as the ‘College-on-Wheels’ project.
Government initiate’s scheme to protect Endangered Languages of India
Dec 18 2014
Union Government has initiated a Scheme known as “Protection and Preservation of Endangered
Languages of India”.
It was announced by the Union Human Resource Development Minister, Smt. Smriti Irani in a written
reply to the Lok Sabha question.
Key facts of the scheme
As part of this Scheme, all the mother tongues/languages of India spoken by less than 10,000 people
will be considered as They will be protected, preserved and documented by the Central Institute of
Indian Languages (CIIL), Mysore.
Technology will play key role in the preservation of endangered languages and it will be an integral
part of it.
Dictionaries and basic grammars in all the endangered languages/mother tongues are prepared in
digital format. In addition, talking dictionaries in the endangered languages/mother tongues will be
prepared with the help of technology.
The cultural and ethno-linguistic aspects of the languages/mother tongues and indigenous
knowledge system of the communities will be video-graphed and stored electronically for archival
and retrieval purposes.
A digital map with linguistic/cultural words with actual pronunciation for accounting variation in
speech is also part of the scheme.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has also prepares guidelines in order to provide assistance for
establishment of Centre of Endangered Languages in Central Universities.
In this regard, UGC has accorded approval to 9 Central Universities to establish these centres and
allocated Rs.50.00 crore.
Martyrdom day of Guru Teg Bahadur observed on 24 November
Nov 24 2014
Martyrdom Day of 9th Sikh guru, Guru Teg Bahadur was being observed on 24th November 2014. It was on
this day in 1675, Guru Teg Bahadur had sacrificed his life in Chandni Chowk, Delhi on the orders of the
sixth Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
Events organised to observe Martyrdom Day of Guru Teg Bahadur
In Punjab, main religious congregations were being organised at Anandpur Sahib in Ropar district
where Guru’s head was cremated and in the Gurudwaras which are related to the memory of Guru.
Community kitchens have been set up at many places. Devotees visited the Gurudwaras since
morning and continuous gurbani recitation took place.
A special journey known as “Rin Uttar Yatra’ to pay gratitude to great guru has started from
Anandpur Sahib, Rupnagar district, Punjab on 23 rd November 2014 and it will conclude at
Gurudwara Sis Ganj Delhi.
Seminars were organized at many places in Punjab and Haryana by the Sikh scholars to apprise
younger generation about guru’s sacrifice.
About Guru Tegh Bahadur
Guru Teg Bahadur is also known as Hind Di Chadder– Protector of India. He had sacrificed his life for the
unity of the society of that period and to stop religious tyranny under the rule of sixth Mughal Emperor
Aurangzeb. He became the 9th Guru of Sikhs on 16 April 1664, a position earlier occupied by his grand-
nephew, Guru Har Krishan.
He had travelled in different parts of the country, including Dhaka and Assam, to preach the teachings of
Guru Nanak, the first Sikh guru. Guru Tegh Bahadur was executed on the orders of Mughal Emperor
Aurangzeb in Delhi for resisting the forced conversions of Hindus in Kashmir.
Chhatpuja Celebrated
Oct 29 2014
Chhatpuja is an ancient festival celebrated by Hindus and Jains alike. It is believed to be the only Vedic
Festival dedicated to the Hindu Sun God, Surya, and Chhathi Maiya, a Vedic Goddess. The Chhat Puja is
performed to thank the Sun God for sustaining life and providing energy. The worshippers request the
Sun God for prosperity and progress. People also invoke Chhathi Maiya, also known as Usha in the Vedas.
She is believed to be the consort or wife of the Sun God. People pray to her asking for salvation.
Celebrations
Worshippers pray to the Gods, perform religious rituals and make offerings to the Gods. It is also
customary to undergo a fast and bathe in the Ganges. All the rituals are observed over a span of four days.
The Chhat Puja rituals find mention in the Mahabharata.
The festival is observed most diligently in Bihar, Jharkhand, Eastern UP and the Terai regions of Nepal.
The day of Chhath Puja is a public holiday in Delhi.
Apple Festival begins in Himachal Pradesh
Sep 26 2014
The Himachal Pradesh State Tourism Department has launched an Apple Festival to showcase and
promote locally produced apples and apple made products among tourist.
The Tourism Departments also plans to take the tourists to the apple orchards itself so that they
may have a more hands-on experience of the plucking, packaging and marketing processes
involved. The department also conducted a competition for farmers growing exotic varieties of
apples. Various local hotels and food chains have also set up stalls selling apple based products.
Apart from being an impetus to tourism, the festival is also expected to promote the horticulture industry
in the state. The horticulture industry is a major source of revenue for the state, with apple being the most
important horticultural crop.


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Art & Culture Current Affairs [PDF E-Book]

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Diversity that is Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.

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train them in heritage conservation approaches.

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present-day conditions to ensure its continued viability.

Government to set up first National Institute of Inter-Faith Studies in Punjab

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UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation

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BSE’s iconic Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers secures trademark

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Taj Declaration to Beat Plastic Pollution adopted in Agra

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8th Theatre Olympics concludes in Mumbai

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will be showcased during the theatre festival.

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inauguration of the mega event which is held once in 12 years.

iconic Srirangam Ranganathaswamy temple in Tiruchirapalli.

UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage

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International Conference on Dara Shikoh to be held

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or return journey to their temple.

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Classical dancer Kalamandalam Sathyabhama passes away

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historical sites of Palmyra.

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affair minister Sushma Swaraj.

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In this category eight artistes have been selected. They are