Current Affairs - Art and Culture

The Behdeinkhlam Festival is celebrated in Jowai, located in the West Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya. This sacred festival belongs to the Pnār community and translates to “driving away the plague.” It holds deep spiritual meaning, symbolising the community’s efforts toward spiritual cleansing, resilience, and unity. The celebrations are marked by colourful processions, rhythmic drumbeats, and the parading of large, decorated wooden structures called Rots. The festival blends ancient tradition with modern themes, reflecting both the heritage and evolving identity of the region. It remains a vital expression of Meghalaya’s cultural richness and community spirit.

India’s first Global Conference on Manuscript Heritage will take place from September 11 to 13, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. Organised by the Ministry of Culture, this international event aims to protect and promote India’s vast manuscript legacy. The conference will feature over 500 delegates, including global scholars, and will include exhibitions, conservation demonstrations, and workshops. It also marks a symbolic tribute to Swami Vivekananda’s 1893 speech in Chicago by aligning the dates accordingly. A key highlight will be the release of the New Delhi Declaration on Manuscript Heritage, guiding global preservation and research efforts in ancient knowledge.

On July 10, 2025, Maharashtra officially recognised Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav as a state festival, marking a significant cultural development. The announcement was made by Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar during a session of the Legislative Assembly. This move ensures government support, promotion, and financial assistance for organising large-scale Ganesh celebrations across the state. Originating in 1893 under the leadership of Lokmanya Tilak, the festival was historically intended to foster unity and nationalism during British rule. Today, it remains a powerful symbol of Maharashtra’s cultural pride, community spirit, and heritage. Declaring it a state festival elevates its importance and preserves its legacy.

On July 11, 2025, UNESCO added the Maratha Military Forts of India to its prestigious World Heritage List during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee in Paris. This recognition honours 12 historically significant forts built by the Maratha Empire between the 17th and 19th centuries in Tamil Nadu. These forts are spread across various terrains hills, coasts, and plains and showcase strategic military architecture, water conservation systems, and innovative use of natural landscapes. Forts like Raigad, Pratapgad, and Sindhudurg reflect the legacy of leaders like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The inclusion highlights their global cultural value and ensures better preservation and international awareness.

The state of Bihar has established a dedicated trust to manage the construction and development of the Grand Janaki Temple at Punaura Dham, located in Sitamarhi district, which is traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita. The trust, named the Shree Janaki Janm Bhumi Punaura Dham Mandir Nyas Samiti, was officially announced through a gazette notification on June 26, 2025. This move aligns with Bihar's vision to boost religious tourism and preserve cultural heritage. With high-level state officials on board, including the Chief Secretary and District Magistrate, the project is expected to enhance local employment and infrastructure.