Empowering the Custodians: Women as a Vector of Cultural Transmission of Living Heritage of Rajasthan, India

Abstract

Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in India encompasses the diverse practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, and skills that communities, groups, and sometimes individuals recognise as part of their cultural legacy. This heritage extends beyond physical monuments and collections to include living traditions passed down through generations, such as oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, knowledge concerning nature, and traditional crafts. This paper explores the multifaceted living heritage of women in Rajasthan, examining their historical and traditional roles, cultural practices, social structures, and contemporary efforts to preserve their traditions. It highlights women as key custodians and practitioners of intangible cultural heritage, significantly contributing to the region's socio-cultural fabric through folk music, dance, storytelling, rituals, art, and crafts. This research paper addresses the multifaceted and often under-recognised role of women in the conservation of Rajasthan's living heritage. It argues that women are indispensable as both custodians and dynamic agents of change, actively transmitting a rich tapestry of intangible cultural assets, from folk arts and rituals to oral traditions and handicrafts. This study intends to discuss women's roles in three areas: women as custodians and home cultural tradition keepers; women who work in crafting artefacts in two capacities, first as art creators and second as performers showcasing folk song, dance, etc. The third domain is entrepreneurship, which breaks down the financial and cultural barriers that the other two domains endure. It additionally reinforces the other two domains with creativity and authenticity in response to contemporary demands. The study concludes that the future of Rajasthan's living heritage is inextricably linked to the empowerment of its female practitioners, and its sustainability depends on a conscious effort to strengthen women's collectives, invest in education, and ensure political representation at the grassroots level. There is a need for more research on the long-term impact of digitalisation and commercialisation on the authenticity and intricacy of traditional crafts. As artisans adapt their products for a global market, the question of whether this compromises the essence of the craft is a critical area for future study.