Identifying UNESCO Recognised Dance Forms

The question asks to identify which of the given dance forms is recognised by UNESCO. UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) recognizes various forms of cultural heritage, including performing arts, under its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Let's look at the options provided:

• Kalbelia
• Bhangra
• Giddha
• Dalkhai

Analysing the Dance Forms

We need to check the status of each of these dance forms regarding UNESCO recognition.

Kalbelia Dance

The Kalbelia dance is a folk dance from Rajasthan, India. It is performed by a community of the same name, the Kalbelia people. The dance is known for its serpentine movements, mimicking snakes, reflecting the community's traditional occupation as snake charmers. In 2010, the Kalbelia folk songs and dances of Rajasthan were inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This makes Kalbelia a UNESCO recognised dance form.

Bhangra and Giddha

Bhangra and Giddha are popular folk dances originating from the Punjab region. Bhangra is a high-energy male dance, while Giddha is typically a female dance. Both are widely performed during festive occasions like Vaisakhi. While culturally significant and popular, Bhangra and Giddha, as specific dance forms, are not individually listed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Dalkhai Dance

Dalkhai is a popular folk dance from Western Odisha, India. It is primarily performed by women during festivals like Dussehra. Like Bhangra and Giddha, Dalkhai is a significant regional folk dance but is not currently on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Conclusion

Based on the UNESCO recognition status, the Kalbelia dance of Rajasthan is the only one among the given options that is inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Therefore, Kalbelia is the correct answer.

Revision Table: UNESCO Recognised Arts

Understanding which cultural practices are recognised by UNESCO is important for general knowledge and competitive exams. The inscription on the Intangible Cultural Heritage list helps in preserving and promoting these unique traditions like the Kalbelia dance.

Additional Information: Intangible Cultural Heritage

UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage includes traditions or living expressions inherited from our ancestors and passed on to our descendants. This includes oral traditions, performing arts (like Kalbelia dance), social practices, rituals, festive events, knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe, and traditional craftsmanship. The recognition aims to safeguard these practices and raise awareness about their importance.