The Manipur State Archaeology of the department of Art and Culture, in collaboration with Manipur University Central Museum (MU), commemorated World Heritage Day-2024 under the theme, ‘Discover and experience diversity’ on Thursday.
The event was held at the Manipur University Central Museum situated at Canchipur.
Speaking as president, Commissioner of Art and Culture M Joy Singh emphasised 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.
“This day is also known as the ‘International Day for Monuments and Sites’, highlighting the crucial need to preserve heritage for the benefit of humankind. World heritage is a shared heritage, and it is essential for all to explore and acknowledge the vast spectrum of mankind's commonalities," stated M Joy Singh.
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.
“World Heritage Day serves as a poignant reminder of our culturally rich past and the responsibility we bear in preserving our natural heritage not only for ourselves but also for future generations,” he mentioned.
As the world celebrates this day, he urged for heightened awareness about the importance of these sites. He concluded by mentioning that Manipur state boasts 65 state-protected monument sites, encompassing temples, inscriptions, and more. He also revealed that Manipur State Archeology is gearing up to include other significant sites like Kangla through upcoming initiatives.
Speaking as the chief guest, Manipur University vice chancellor N Lokendra Singh expressed his gratitude towards the State Archaeology department for their sponsorship of the programme. He highlighted the university's efforts to showcase the museum's important collections and make them accessible to all visitors.
He 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.
He concluded by expressing appreciation to the authority concerned for supporting the enhancement of infrastructure at the university campus, specifically in the higher education sector.
Guest of Honour, curator (in-charge), Manipur University Central Museum, Canchipur Meesala Ramakrishna spoke on the significance of art and culture in line with the world Heritage Day event.
He opined that Manipur has a rich culture and heritage and emphasised on the preservation of historical sites and monuments of ancient past. He appealed for the fervent protection, conservation and restoration of the rich biodiversity and the unique art and cultural heritage of the state for the future generation.
Further, 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, and a signature campaign was held with the statement, "I pledge to safeguard my heritage".
Among the attendees were superintendent of State Archaeology Sashikanta Sharma K and research associate, Manipur University Ng Jayshree Devi.
