Daily Current Affairs : 3-November-2023
Kozhikode, known for its rich literary tradition, and Gwalior, renowned for its musical heritage, were among 55 new cities worldwide to join the UCCN. These cities were selected to represent seven creative fields, including crafts and folk arts, design, film, gastronomy, literature, media arts, and music. Kozhikode was placed in the category of literature, while Gwalior was recognized for its musical contributions.
The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN)
The UCCN, established in 2004, aims to foster cooperation among cities that prioritize creativity as a key element for sustainable urban development. This global network comprises 350 cities across more than a hundred countries and aligns with UNESCO’s goals of cultural diversity and resilience to challenges like climate change, inequality, and urbanization.
Objectives of the UCCN
- Leveraging Creativity: The UCCN encourages cities to recognize creativity as a fundamental component of urban development, fostering partnerships among the public and private sectors and civil society.
- Hubs of Creativity: It envisions creating hubs of creativity and innovation, expanding opportunities for cultural professionals, and contributing to the UN’s sustainable development agenda.
Areas of Action
The UCCN’s objectives are pursued at both the city and international levels, emphasizing knowledge sharing, best practices, and professional and artistic exchanges. The network’s annual conference offers a platform for mayors and stakeholders to exchange information and strengthen inter-city collaborations.
Indian Cities in the Network
In addition to Kozhikode and Gwalior, Varanasi (music), Srinagar (crafts and folk arts), and Chennai (music) are also part of the UCCN, showcasing India’s diverse creative contributions.
Kozhikode’s Literary Tradition
Kozhikode, a city in North Kerala, boasts a vibrant literary and cultural heritage. It has been home to numerous prominent literary figures, and its literary tradition is enriched by numerous publishing houses and libraries. Notably, the first Malayalam novel, “Kundalatha,” was authored by Appu Nedungadi in Kozhikode in 1887. Eminent writers like S K Pottekkatt, Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, and MT Vasudevan Nair have hailed from this city, contributing significantly to Indian literature. Furthermore, Kozhikode has nurtured talents in the film and theater industry over the last half-century.
Important Points:
- Kozhikode and Gwalior Join UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network:
- Kozhikode, Kerala, and Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, were recently added to UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network (UCCN).
- Kozhikode was recognized for its literary contributions, while Gwalior was acknowledged for its musical heritage.
- UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN):
- Established in 2004 to promote cooperation among cities focusing on creativity for sustainable urban development.
- Includes 350 cities in over a hundred countries.
- Aims to leverage creative, social, and economic potential of cultural industries.
- Aligns with UNESCO’s goals of cultural diversity and resilience against challenges like climate change and urbanization.
- Objectives of UCCN:
- Encourages cities to recognize creativity as a vital element of urban development.
- Aims to create hubs of creativity and innovation, broadening opportunities for cultural professionals.
- Supports UN’s sustainable development agenda through member city initiatives.
- Areas of Action within UCCN:
- Implementation of objectives at both city and international levels.
- Facilitates knowledge sharing, best practices, and professional and artistic exchanges.
- Annual conference strengthens ties between creative cities worldwide, allowing practical information exchange and inter-city collaborations.
- Indian Cities in the Network:
- Besides Kozhikode and Gwalior, Varanasi (music), Srinagar (crafts and folk arts), and Chennai (music) are part of the UCCN, showcasing India’s diverse creative contributions.
- Kozhikode’s Literary Tradition:
- Home to prominent literary figures, publishing houses, and libraries.
- Birthplace of the first Malayalam novel, “Kundalatha,” in 1887 by Appu Nedungadi.
- Produced renowned writers like S K Pottekkatt, Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, and MT Vasudevan Nair.
- Nurtured talents in the film and theater industry over the last half-century.
- Significance of Inclusion:
- Highlights global recognition of Kozhikode and Gwalior’s cultural contributions.
- Celebrates past achievements while fostering future creative collaborations and sustainable urban development efforts.
Why In News
The city of Kozhikode in Kerala was added to UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network (UCCN), recognizing its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene, making it a hub of creativity and innovation in the region.
MCQs about Kozhikode and Gwalior Join UNESCO’s Global Network
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Which Indian city was recognized for its literary contributions in UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network?
A) Gwalior
B) Varanasi
C) Kozhikode
D) Srinagar
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What is the primary objective of the annual conference of mayors and stakeholders in the UCCN?
A) To showcase cultural artifacts
B) To exchange practical information and strengthen inter-city collaborations
C) To discuss climate change policies
D) To promote tourism
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Which Indian city was recognized for its musical heritage in the UCCN?
A) Chennai
B) Varanasi
C) Srinagar
D) Gwalior
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What is the purpose of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN)?
A) To promote cooperation among cities focusing on creativity for sustainable urban development
B) To organize international sports events
C) To encourage industrial development in urban areas
D) To promote political cooperation between countries
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