World Heritage Day celebrated
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, April 18 2024:
Manipur State Archaeology, Department of Art and Culture, Government of Manipur in collaboration with Manipur University Central Museum (MU), commemorated World Heritage Day-2024 under the theme "Discover and experience diversity" today.
The event held at Manipur University Central Museum, Canchipur was graced by M Joy Singh, Commissioner of Art and Culture; Prof N Lokendra Singh, Vice Chancellor of Manipur University; and Dr Meesala Ramakrishna, Curator (In-charge), Manipur University Central Museum as presidium members.
Speaking on the occasion, M Joy Singh emphasized the significance of World Heritage Day as a global celebration aimed at raising awareness about the remarkable cultural and natural sites listed under UNESCO's World Heritage List.
He highlighted that there are currently 1,199 World Heritage sites worldwide, as of January 2024, offering a rich diversity of cultures, traditions, and landscapes.
"In India, there are 42 such sites, with the most recent addition in 2023 .
being the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas and Santiniketan in Karnataka.
Additionally, there are 57 other monument sites, including the Keibul Lamjao National Park.
Manipur boasts 65 state-protected monument sites, encompassing temples, inscriptions, and more", he added.
The Commissioner further revealed that Manipur State Archeology is gearing up to include other significant sites like Kangla through upcoming initiatives.
Prof N Lokendra Singh highlighted the university's efforts to showcase the museum's important collections and make them accessible to all visitors.
He also pointed out the unique location of Canchipur, which houses significant sites in Manipur.
Referring to the Govindaji temple atop a hill in Canchipur, he mentioned that the Chairman of Indian Monument Committee had recommended its inclusion in the list of selected monuments for preservation.
Additionally, he drew attention to Captain Gordon's burial site near Canchipur High School, urging the State Archaeology department to take steps to highlight this historical site.
The event ended with a photo exhibition, exhibiting items such as stone tools, pottery assemblage, terracotta objects, metal implements and ornaments, bio materials, structural remains, etc.
A signature campaign was also held with the statement, "I pledge to safeguard my heritage".
Sashikanta Sharma K.Superintendent of State Archaeology and Dr Ng Jayshree Devi, Research Associate, Manipur University also took part in the event.