Intangible heritage refers to the non-physical intellectual wealth of a culture, such as customs, beliefs, traditions, knowledge, and language. It is a living form of heritage that is inherited from ancestors and passed on to descendants, providing a link from the past, through the present, and into the future
Intangible cultural heritage is the wealth of knowledge and abilities that are passed down from one generation to the next through cultural practices, beliefs, and values. Oral traditions, performing arts, social customs, rituals, holiday celebrations, and traditional craftsmanship are all part of it.
A community’s collective memory is a shared store of information and experience that is passed down from one generation to the next. It includes historical facts, tales, myths, and legends that have been remembered and repeated over time.
Because both intangible cultural heritage and collective memory involve the passing of information and skills from one generation to the next, they are closely related. Many intangible cultural practices, including storytelling, music, and dance, depend heavily on collective memory.
The value of intangible cultural heritage is found in the knowledge and skills that are passed down through it as well as in the cultural manifestation itself. This knowledge transfer affects both minority groups and mainstream social groups within a state, and it is crucial for both developing and developed countries.
Due to its fragility, intangible cultural heritage needs to be preserved and understood. The Convention on Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO aims to protect intangible cultural heritage by fostering cultural diversity and community dialogue.
In conclusion, collective memory is a significant component of India’s intangible cultural heritage, which is made up of a variety of passed-down cultural customs, notions, and principles. Maintaining cultural diversity and fostering communication between communities both benefit from protecting and understanding this heritage.