In a vibrant effort to protect and promote living cultural heritage, UNESCO, in partnership with local organizations, is bringing a unique celebration to the heart of the Sundarbans. This initiative moves beyond preserving ancient monuments to actively supporting the crafts, performances, and traditions that form the identity of communities.
Grassroots Revival of Bengal's Cultural Tapestry
The driving force behind this movement is the Rural Craft and Cultural Hubs (RCCH) initiative, a collaborative project between UNESCO and the Department of MSME&T, Government of West Bengal. Its core mission is to promote cultural diversity and empower the local artisans and performers who are the true custodians of intangible heritage. On the ground, the Kolkata Society for Cultural Heritage (KSCH) acts as a key implementing partner, working tirelessly at the grassroots level to revive, sustain, and celebrate Bengal's indigenous art forms.
SundeRhythm Festival: A Two-Day Cultural Immersion
This December, this partnership culminates in the "SundeRhythm Festival" – a special two-day village festival set in Sajnekhali, Sundarbans. The event is dedicated to the rich cultural mosaic of West Bengal, with a poignant focus on the living heritage of the Sundarbans communities themselves.
The festival is designed to be a holistic cultural experience. A major highlight will be a special curation of Banabibi Pala, a performance tradition that deeply reflects the unique ecological and cultural identity of the deltaic Sundarbans region, where the legend of Banabibi is central to local faith and life.
Showcasing the Rhythm and Soul of Rural Bengal
Attendees will be treated to live showcases by renowned troupes representing the major folk traditions of Bengal. The lineup is a powerful journey through the state's artistic soul, featuring:
- Chhau: The vigorous martial dance form.
- Jhumur: A vibrant folk dance and music tradition.
- Baul & Fakiri: The mystical minstrel songs seeking spiritual union.
- Bhatiyali: The melodic boatmen's songs of the rivers.
- Raibenshe: A dynamic martial dance performed with sticks.
- Gambhira: A traditional folk performance often with social commentary.
- Bhawaiya: The soulful folk music of North Bengal.
Beyond performances, the festival will host interactive handicraft exhibitions. Here, artisans from across West Bengal will demonstrate their skills and offer exquisite handmade products for sale. This provides visitors with a direct glimpse into the region's renowned craftsmanship and creativity, while offering vital economic support to the artisans.
Empowering Custodians of Heritage
The SundeRhythm Festival is more than just a celebration; it is a strategic intervention for cultural sustainability. By creating a platform for these art forms in their regional context, UNESCO and KSCH are ensuring that these traditions are seen, valued, and continued. The festival directly empowers local artisans and performers, reinforcing their role as essential guardians of Bengal's living heritage. It stands as a model for how global missions for cultural safeguarding can successfully integrate with local partnerships to create meaningful, community-centric impact.
