World Heritage Day

Syllabus: GS-1/ Art and Culture

Why in news

World Heritage Day, also known as International Monuments and Sites Day, is celebrated on April 18th every year.

Theme:

The theme for 2024 is “Discover and Experience Diversity”.

Background:

• World Heritage sites are places of outstanding universal value to humanity.
• The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) proposed the day in 1982.
• UNESCO approved it in 1983.

Significance:

• Raises awareness about the importance of preserving historical and cultural sites.
• Highlights the need for protecting India’s monuments for future generations.

Monuments of National Importance (MNI) of India:

• Officially conserved by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
• There are 3697 MNIs in India.

Examples of Architecturally Significant Caves in India:

• Ellora Caves (Maharashtra): A fusion of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments, including the Kailash Temple.
• Ajanta Caves (Maharashtra): Renowned for exquisite Buddhist rock-cut cave monuments dating back to 2nd century BCE.
• Krishna Mandapam (Tamil Nadu): Rock-cut cave temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.
• Varaha Cave Temple (Tamil Nadu): A UNESCO-listed monument carved from a single rock in the 7th century CE, depicting Lord Vishnu.
• Elephanta Caves (Maharashtra): Rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring the Trimurti statue.