Why in News?

• The Uttar Pradesh government will apply for UNESCO recognition for five cities as intangible heritage and creative cities to preserve the state's cultural heritage and gain global recognition.

Key Points:

=> Selected Cultural Cities (Elements):

• Perfume of kannauj
• Holi of Braj
• Ganga Aarti in Varanasi
• Glass Art of Firozabad
• Black Pottery of Azamgarh (Nizamabad)

Further Attempt:

=> The State government is also making efforts to include  the folk art and folk literature of Bundelkhand in the intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

=> Research will be conducted on the Deg-Bhapka method , historical importance, socio-economic impact and traditional processes for Kannauj perfume.

=> The historical, spiritual and ritualistic significance of the Ganga Aarti of Varanasi will be studied.

=> Holi of Braj, especially Lathmar Holi will be given prominence.

=> Documents will be prepared by conducting research on Alha singing and Rai dance of Bundelkhand, black pottery of Azamgarh, and glass industry of Firozabad.

Historical context and UNESCO recognition:

=> In the year 2017, due to the efforts of the central and state governments, Kumbh was for the first time recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

Effects and potential benefits:

• By getting global recognition , these cultural heritages will get promotion at international level.
• Tourism will be boosted , which will benefit the local economy.
• Local artisans, artists and traditional industries will get protection , which will strengthen their livelihood.
• Preservation of culture and heritage will be promoted, so that these traditions remain safe for generations to come.

UNESCO:

• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) .
• This organization strives to establish peace through international cooperation in the field of education, science and culture.
• UNESCO's programmes contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals defined in Agenda 2030 , adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015.
• It has 193 member countries and 11 associate members.
• India joined UNESCO in 1946 .
• The United States and Israel formally left UNESCO in 2019.
• Its headquarters is in Paris (France).