World Heritage Day is celebrated annually on April 18th to raise awareness about the importance of preserving and protecting cultural heritage around the world. India is home to a rich cultural heritage that dates back to ancient times (some nine to ten thousand years ago), but unfortunately, much of it has been looted and destroyed over the centuries.
Mahmud of Ghazni - breaking Somnath temple
From the invasions of the Mughal Empire to the colonial rule of the British, India has witnessed a long history of cultural destruction and looting. Many iconic cultural sites, including temples, palaces, and monuments, were destroyed or vandalized during these periods of foreign rule.
The Somnath:
One of the most significant periods of cultural destruction in India was during the invasions of the Mughal Empire. The Mughals were responsible for the destruction of many iconic Hindu temples and shrines, including the Somnath Temple, which was looted and destroyed several times by various Mughal rulers.
Somnath temple in 1895 (in destroyed state)
Koh-i-noor:
During the colonial era, the British were also responsible for significant cultural looting and destruction in India. The British took numerous cultural artifacts from India, including the Koh-i-Noor diamond, which was taken from the Sikh Empire and is now part of the British Crown Jewels.
Koh-i-noor, sitting on British throne
In addition to the physical destruction of cultural sites, India has also suffered from the loss of intangible cultural heritage. Traditional art forms, music, and languages have been lost over time due to a lack of preservation efforts and the influence of foreign cultures.
However, despite the losses suffered by India's cultural heritage, there have been significant efforts to preserve and protect the country's rich cultural legacy. India has many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, and the Ellora Caves, which are protected and maintained by the government and local communities.
Furthermore, India's diverse cultural heritage is celebrated throughout the country, with festivals and events that showcase traditional art forms, music, and dance. This celebration of cultural diversity and heritage helps to preserve and promote India's rich cultural legacy.
In summary, India's cultural heritage has suffered from significant looting and destruction throughout its history. However, there have been efforts to preserve and protect these cultural sites, and India's diverse cultural heritage continues to be celebrated and promoted throughout the country. On this World Heritage Day, it is essential to recognize the importance of preserving and protecting cultural heritage around the world, including in India.