Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) holds profound cultural, historical, and social importance within the heritage sector, representing a dynamic and living entity shaped by the communities that create it. As these communities evolve across generations, their cultural expressions adapt to changing environments, highlighting the dynamic nature of culture with its myriad variations (Lenzerini, 2011). Despite its significance, India's rapid industrialization threatens the Traditional Knowledge Systems (TKS) and skills inherent in cultural practices, leading to their gradual undervaluation. Consequently, nurturing an appreciation for these practices becomes imperative, particularly among the younger generation (Shukla, 2020). This study aims to advocate for the establishment of a repository showcasing TKS of ICH, through digital technology by emphasizing the potential of intertwining two intangible elements, specifically craft-form and dance-form, to bring-in diverse disciplines in school curriculum i.e science, mathematics and social sciences, serving as crucial pedagogical tools. To achieve this, the chosen craft-form for pedagogy is Tambat Ali, the traditional craft of making copper utensils in Pune, Maharashtra. This craft-form is linked with the art-form of Bharatnatyam, a classical dance style. The research proposes the integration of these cultural elements into educational settings with the help of digital technologies, one key opportunity industrialization has provided in order to instill a deeper appreciation for traditional practices, nurturing a generation that not only values but comprehends the significance of these cultural legacies. By sensitizing students to traditional art forms within schools, this initiative seeks to safeguard and promote India's rich heritage, fostering a holistic educational approach that seamlessly integrates cultural knowledge with academic disciplines.

Authors:
Rutuja Sahasrabudhe, The Vishwas and Anuradha Memorial Foundation, India

About the Presenter(s)
Ms Rutuja Sahasrabudhe is a Business Employee at The Vishwas and Anuradha Memorial Foundation (TVAM) in India

See this presentation on the full schedule – On Demand Schedule

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