It was held on November 6-7, 2024, at the Central University of Kerala, Periye, and organized by Folkland with CSR support from Dorf Ketal Chemicals. In collaboration with the Department of Malayalam at the Central University of Kerala, the Linguistic Diversity Study Centre of Kannur University, and the Natya Rathnam Kannan Pattali Smaraka Kathakali Trust, Bekal, the event united scholars, researchers, and heritage enthusiasts from around the world. The seminar focused on addressing the importance of preserving intangible cultural heritage amid rapid globalization and included presentations on topics that underscored the richness of cultural diversity.
The event opened with a warm welcome by Dr. R. Chandrabose, followed by introductory remarks from Dr. V. Balakrishnan, Member Secretary of the Biodiversity Board, Govt. of Kerala. Dr. V. Jayarajan, Secretary General of the InterCity Intangible Cultural Cooperation Network and Chairman of Folkland, delivered the Presidential Address, stressing the urgency of cultural preservation in the face of globalized change. Prof. Vincent Mathew, Vice-Chancellor of the Central University of Kerala, set an inspiring tone with his inaugural address, reinforcing the university’s commitment to cultural conservation and awareness.
The keynote address by Dr. B. Venugopal, former Director of the Indian Museum, was a powerful call to action for the preservation of unique cultural expressions that are at risk. Dr. Venugopal highlighted the UNESCO-accredited framework for intangible cultural elements, emphasizing the need for a collective approach to safeguarding heritage. Dr. A. Ashokan, member of the Syndicate at Kannur University and Chief Guest, delivered an encouraging speech, while Prof. Joseph Koyippally, Dean of the School of Languages at the Central University of Kerala, offered a felicitation address. Prof. Koyippally commended the collaboration among institutions, underlining how such partnerships strengthen cultural preservation efforts. Dr. A.M. Sreedharan, Professor and Director of the School of Distance Education at Kannur University, was honored for his recent Sahithya Academy Award and delivered the vote of thanks, expressing deep gratitude to all involved.
The seminar featured a diverse lineup of presentations by experts, enriching discussions on a range of topics related to cultural heritage. Dr. Anjanapuri, a Tagore Fellow, shared insights on community-driven cultural preservation and the role of local narratives and performances in retaining cultural identities. Savithri N V, Assistant Professor in the Department of Music at Govt. College Chittur, spoke on traditional music as an essential form of cultural expression. Dr. V. Pragathii, Director of PILC, highlighted the importance of community heritages and narrated discourses and performances that reinforce cultural bonds within societies. Michel Lestrehan, a classical dance exponent and choreographer from France, presented on the history and development of Kathakali, Kerala’s classical dance-drama, underscoring its significance as a symbol of Kerala’s artistic heritage.
Dr. V. Pragathi (Left) & Michel Lestrehan
Dr. Anjanapuri (Left) & Dr. V. Jayarajan (Right)
Dr. A M Sreedharan
Adding to the rich dialogue, Dr. Sini M, Professor in the Department of Anthropology at Kannur University, shared her research on granite stone workers and divine image creators in Ramanthali, providing insight into the links between artisanal practices and cultural traditions. Dr. KM Aravindhakshan, a folklorist and former professor in Libya, spoke on the symbolic representations within festival folklore and their societal functions. Dr. Seong Yong Park, President of Culture Masters (culturemasters.org) in the Republic of Korea, emphasized his organization’s dedication to preserving intangible cultural heritage (ICH) and fostering sustainable cultural exchange globally. Highlighting the recent Arirang Culture Masters Award presented to two Indian artists—Guru Sadanam Balakrishnan, a Kathakali artist from Kerala, and Dr. Anwesa Mahanta, a Sattriya dancer from Assam—he showcased Culture Masters' commitment to honoring practitioners who promote the continuity of cultural heritage and peaceful co-existence. Culture Masters, an international cultural enterprise, leads initiatives like the Arirang Master Designation Program and engages in partnerships, such as the recent MoU Signing with the International Institute for Central Asian Studies (IICAS) and organization of the Hwasun International Forum. These collaborations underscore Culture Masters’ mission to advance global cultural exchange, support climate resilience, contribute to urban development, and empower communities in heritage preservation efforts.
Dr. Park Seong-Yong presenting his paper, "Culture Masters: Innovating Intangible Heritage Preservation for Sustainable Development and Global Unity"
Prof. S A Krishnayya, an art historian, eco-activist, and expert in manuscript conservation from Udupi, presented on manuscriptology and shared traditional mural painting techniques from Karnataka, offering valuable insights into the conservation of historical art forms.
In the valedictory session, Dr. R. Chandrabose welcomed the attendees, and Dr. V. Jayarajan once again gave the Presidential Address, sharing reflections on the event’s impact. Prof. M. N. Venkatesha, Professor and Dean at Dravidian University, Kuppam, graced the occasion as Chief Guest, highlighting the importance of folklore studies and the role of folklore in conserving intangible heritage. Dr. A.M. Sreedharan presented a review of the seminar, summarizing the essential insights shared throughout the two days and emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to protect cultural diversity.
Prof. M N Venkitesh presenting his paper
The event concluded with a captivating Kathakali demonstration by Kottakkal Unnikrishnan and his team, who brought the audience closer to Kerala’s rich heritage with their performance. K. Sureshan from Folkland extended the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation for the speakers, organizers, and attendees whose contributions made the seminar a success. This international seminar successfully fostered dialogue and understanding on the critical need to protect intangible cultural heritage, leaving a lasting impact on participants and reaffirming the importance of preserving cultural diversity in today’s world.
There was a Kathakali demonstration to celebrate this international seminar.
Many observers attended the seminar, adding to the excitement of the event.
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