Moidams On UNESCO List To Return Of Stolen Artefacts: Key Developments On Cultural Front In 2024
The consecration of Ayodhya Ram Mandir marked the culmination of a long-pending religious aspiration. The temple came up after decades of legal and political disputes resolved by a 2019 SC verdict.
The year 2024 witnessed significant developments on the cultural scene in India. From the UNESCO recognition for Moidams in Assam to the consecration of Ram Lala idol in Ayodhya, the country saw a few initiatives aimed at enhancing access to spiritual sites, protecting cultural assets, and celebrating linguistic diversity. Coupled with global cultural diplomacy and domestic projects, the efforts saw a focus on integrating heritage preservation with modern infrastructure and economic growth.
Here is a look at the key developments on the culture and heritage front in 2024.
Ayodhya Ram Mandir Consecration & Hindu Temple At Abu Dhabi
The consecration of Ram Lalla idol at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir marked the culmination of a long-pending religious aspiration.
The temple, constructed at the site identified as Lord Ram’s birthplace, came up after decades of legal and political disputes resolved by a 2019 Supreme Court verdict. While it also drew criticism for its association with the demolition of the Babri Masjid in 1992, which had stood at the site for centuries, the event was largely celebrated by Indians as a symbol of cultural pride. The consecration ceremony was attended by political leaders, religious figures, and devotees, underscoring its significance in India’s socio-cultural and political narrative.
The inauguration of the BAPS Mandir in Abu Dhabi marked a milestone in cultural diplomacy, being the first traditional Hindu temple in the Middle East.
Cultural Infrastructure And Projects
The year saw the launch of several projects aimed at preserving India’s cultural heritage. The foundation stones for the Maa Kamakhya Divya Pariyojana in Assam and Shri Kalki Dham in Uttar Pradesh were laid to enhance access to these sites. Meanwhile, the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, Gujarat, progressed with the aim of showcasing India’s ancient maritime history that goes back over 4,500 years. The government has said Lothal will be developed as the world’s oldest dockyards and a historic site of the Indus Valley Civilisation, and that the project is expected to create around 22,000 jobs, 15,000 direct and 7,000 indirect, boosting local economy.
UNESCO Recognition And Artefact Repatriation
Assam's Moidams, burial mound used during the Ahom dynasty, were added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list. In another milestone, India and the USA signed a 'Cultural Property Agreement' aiming to protect India’s cultural treasures from illicit trafficking. The US has since returned to India more than 1,400 looted artefacts valued at approximately $10 million, and 297 stolen antiquities.
An Anubhav Kendra came up in Kurukshetra aiming to bring ancient scriptures like the Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita to life.
In March 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the redeveloped Kochrab Ashram, which was established by Mahatma Gandhi in 1915 after he returned to India from South Africa.
Linguistic And Religious Milestones
Classical Language status was granted to Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Pali, and Prakrit, in a bid to preserve linguistic traditions. In Puri, all four gates of the Shree Jagannath Temple were reopened, addressing a long-standing demand from devotees.
Economic and Cultural Integration
The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) recorded a turnover of over Rs 1.5 lakh crore and created 10 lakh jobs in 2024, according to the government, which claimed this to be a blend of tradition with sustainability and modern innovation. Projects such as the redevelopment of Vishnupad Temple in Gaya and Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya aim to merge heritage conservation with economic development.
Cultural Celebrations And Initiatives
Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, was renamed as 'Sri Vijaya Puram' on September 13, 2024, with the government claiming that the decision aims to honour the region's history, and its particular significance in the freedom struggle.
PM Modi inaugurated the 1st Bodoland Mohotsav in Delhi, a celebration of the unique culture, traditions, and history of the Bodoland region, and also inaugurated Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, showcasing Northeast’s rich cultural heritage.
All Eyes On Mahakumbh
Preparations have begun for the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, anticipated to be one of the largest gatherings globally. Set to take place in from January 13 to February 26, 2025, the event is likely to draw an estimated 45 crore devotees and visitors.
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