On the left is Dr. V. Jayarajan, newly inaugurated as the 2nd Chair of the IAB, and on the right is Mr. Alisher Ikramov, who has served as the 1st Chair for the past two years.

Culture Masters (President Park Seongyong) announced on February 27 during the 5th IAB meeting that Dr. V. Jayarajan has been appointed as the new Chairperson for the second term of the International Advisory & Directors' Board (IAB). Dr. Jayarajan succeeds Mr. Alisher Ikramov, who played a pivotal role in steering the board over the past two years, significantly contributing to the development of the Arirang Master Program and other key initiatives.

Recognizing the Contributions of Mr. Alisher Ikramov

During his tenure as the inaugural Chairperson of the IAB, Mr. Alisher Ikramov provided remarkable leadership, guiding the board in fostering international collaborations, strengthening the global presence of Culture Masters, and advancing the Arirang Master Program. His efforts in promoting the value of intangible cultural heritage and engaging cultural stakeholders worldwide have been instrumental in shaping the organization’s vision. Culture Masters extends its heartfelt gratitude for his dedication and significant contributions.

Introducing Dr. V. Jayarajan: A Leader in Folklore and Cultural Preservation

Dr. V. Jayarajan, based in Kerala, India, brings a wealth of experience in the fields of folklore, anthropology, and cultural heritage preservation. After earning his bachelor's degree in Economics and Law in Kerala, he pursued postgraduate studies in Sociology and Folklore, culminating in a PhD in Social Anthropology from Mysore University, Karnataka. With extensive experience in teaching and research, he has been a leading figure in the conservation and revitalization of India’s intangible cultural heritage.

As the Founder and Chairman of Folkland, an International Center for Folklore and Culture in Kerala, Dr. Jayarajan has dedicated his career to promoting and preserving traditional arts. He has held esteemed positions, including Vice President of the Indian Folklore Congress and Regional Secretary of the Indian Medical Anthropology Association. His work has been widely recognized, earning him prestigious fellowships such as the Junior and Senior Fellowships from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the William Evans Visiting Lecture Fellowship from Otago University, New Zealand.

A Legacy of Conservation and Cultural Empowerment

Dr. Jayarajan’s contributions extend beyond academia. He has actively led initiatives to revive and sustain numerous indigenous art forms, including Chimmankkali, Mangalam Kali, Eruthukali, and Yakshagana. Through his efforts, he has empowered tribal communities by providing training in traditional dance, drumming, mural painting, and handicrafts. His project, “Art for Sustainable Living,” has provided livelihood opportunities for approximately 6,000 women by integrating artistic skills with economic empowerment.

His commitment to cultural preservation is evident in his extensive documentation work. He has collected and safeguarded over 250,000 folios of palm leaf manuscripts, preserving invaluable tribal songs, practices, and rituals for future generations. Additionally, he has played a key role in establishing a Folk Museum, training thousands of young artists, and advocating for the protection of architectural heritage.

Global Engagement and Future Aspirations

Dr. Jayarajan’s leadership extends to the global stage, where he has represented Indian folklore at various international festivals, including the Gannat Festival in France, the World Ethnic Dance Festival in Korea, and the Commonwealth Games in India. His collaborations with international organizations such as IOV (International Organization of Folk Art) and the World Ethnic Dance Institute in Korea highlight his commitment to cultural diplomacy.

As the newly appointed Chairperson of the IAB, Dr. Jayarajan aims to continue strengthening Culture Masters' role in global intangible cultural heritage preservation. His vision includes expanding the reach of the Arirang Master Program, fostering cross-cultural exchanges, and further integrating sustainable cultural practices into community development initiatives.

Culture Masters warmly welcomes Dr. Jayarajan to his new role and looks forward to his leadership in advancing the mission of promoting and preserving intangible cultural heritage worldwide.

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