Mehak Gupta Grover
India is one of the most religiously and ethically diverse nations in the world. It has 29 states with different cultures and civilisations. Indian culture, often labelled as an amalgamation of several cultures and spans across the Indian sub continent and has been influenced by a history that is several thousand years old. India’s culture is among the world’s oldest. It is also a country known for its extraordinary, diverse and vast pool of cultural heritage and ancient monuments in the form of archaeological sites and buildings. It is replete with heritage sites dotted all over the country, from east to west and north to south. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has recognised 35 world heritage sites in India. There are countless other sites that are in the same league and carry Indian legacy from pre- historic times till present. We feel proud of our country’s rich legacy, uniqueness and importance.
But, how does it feel when the same legacy is somehow not taken care of? How is it perceived that the same cultural heritage is being taken for granted? It feels mournful, outraged and forlorn to see such sight. Our culture is unique, our culture is our base; how can we destroy our days of yore?
India has myriad heritage sites, yet few people know many of them beyond the most famous ones. North India is home to numerous historical sites, fortresses, landmarks and Cultural objects. Agra fort, Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri are few heritage sites declared by UNESCO. When we come to west India, besides the coastal beauty- the western part of India is known as the land of historical edifices and remnants. Few famous monuments being Gateway of India, Ajanta Ellora caves, Victoria Terminus, Shaking Minarets. South India is again filled with beautiful sites. Churches and convents of Goa, Monuments at Hampi, group of Chola temples, Monuments at Mahabalipuram are spellbound beauties. In the eastern part of India, Konark Sun Temple, Nalanda University, Bhodgaya, Udaygiri and khandagiri caves are worth seeing.
Most of the sculptures in historic temples and tourist places have been damaged by vandals and idols inscribed by gold/silver have been taken out of the country; some monuments have been missing due to encroachment.
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is a government of India ministry of culture organisation responsible for archaeological research, conservation and preservation of cultural monuments in the country. ASI is doing its job but people have to be equally disciplined while preserving their culture. Various trusts have been initiated for safeguarding our foundation. Monuments, if well preserved, can also instill pride in the people and the nation.
Don’t litter! Be responsible! Respect the sanctity of these sites as well as the local cultures. We must prevent ourselves and others from scribbling on the walls. We must participate in the regular cleanliness drives.
There are so many heritage palaces in United Kingdom like India; but we Indians like palaces of London more. Why? Because of its maintenance. There is a great deal of expertise in UK when it comes to preserving both tangible and intangible heritage.
Are we proud of our Heritage? Do we acknowledge the immense treasure that has been left for us? Passed on for generations, nurtured for centuries, shaping our present and future, heritage is one of the best gifts given to us by our country. Little do we realise the worth of the splendid heritage of India- be it stunning monuments, diverse nature or distinct culture. In today’s competitive world, we have to preserve the monuments and showcase them to the next generation as the contributions or achievements of our ancestors.
Little contribution from our side is a must. If travel is on our mind, let’s ditch a foreign destination this time and explore the beauty of our country. With a country as diverse as ours, we will definitely be surprised and exposed to varied cultures. I recently visited Jaipur. After visiting Amber palace, Hawa Mahal and other heritage sites, I felt glorious for the legacy this country holds but at the same time felt miserable and wrathful regarding it’s sight and maintenance.
A little effort from our side can create drastic changes that will make the past, the present and the future generations of the country and the world proud of India. Our cultural heritage is a mirror of our national unity. Cultural heritage is what sets us apart. People without the knowledge of their past, origin and culture is like a tree with no roots.
Very well compiled by Mahatma Gandhi-
” A nation’s culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people.”
feedbackexcelsior@gmail.com
Trending Now
E-Paper
Follow our WhatsApp channel