Daily Current Affairs : 11-July-2023
In a moment of great pride for India, the Guinness World Record was recently bestowed upon the country for the ‘largest display of Lambani items.’ This remarkable achievement took place during the 3rd G20 Culture Working Group Meeting held in Hampi, Karnataka, at the Sandur Kushal Kala Kendra (SKKK). The display showcased a breathtaking total of 1755 Lambani craft items, highlighting the tribe’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship. Let’s delve deeper into the world of the Lambani tribe, exploring their origins, culture, language, and the significance of the SKKK in preserving their traditional crafts.
The Lambani Tribe: A Journey Across the Indian Subcontinent
The Lambani tribe, also known as Lamani, Lambadi, or Banjara, has a fascinating history that traverses the Indian subcontinent. Originally from Rajasthan, they are believed to have migrated from the Gor province of Afghanistan. The term “Laman” is of Sanskrit origin, derived from the word “lavana,” meaning salt, which reflects their historical association with bullock and salt trade. Over the centuries, the Lambanis have spread their roots across India, creating a tapestry of diverse cultures and traditions.
Their Vibrant Culture: Lambani Embroidery
One of the most captivating aspects of the Lambani tribe’s culture is their exquisite embroidery. Lambani embroidery is a vibrant and intricate form of textile embellishment characterized by colorful threads, mirror work, and a rich array of stitch patterns. This art form thrives in several villages of Karnataka and is a testament to the craftswomen’s skilled hands and artistic vision. The Lambani craft tradition involves expertly stitching together small pieces of discarded fabric to create beautiful textiles, showcasing their resourcefulness and creativity.
Language and Religion: A Mosaic of Influence
The Lambanis have a distinct language called Gor Boli, which belongs to the Indo-Aryan group. Interestingly, Gor Boli shares similarities with other languages like Romani, Lomavern, Rajasthani, and Marwari, reflecting the diverse linguistic tapestry of the Indian subcontinent.
In matters of faith, the Lambani tribe embraces a blend of individual deities and Hinduism. They worship their Gods, including saints like Seva Lal and a dacoit named Mitthu Bhukhiya, alongside popular Hindu deities like Hanuman, Krishna, Shiva, Ganesh, and Balaji. This syncretic religious approach mirrors the harmony and acceptance that permeates their cultural heritage.
Preserving the Lambani Legacy: Sandur Kushal Kala Kendra (SKKK)
The Sandur Kushal Kala Kendra (SKKK) plays a vital role in preserving the Lambani tribe’s traditional crafts and enhancing the livelihoods of skilled craftswomen. Established in 1988 as a registered society, SKKK has been dedicated to nurturing artisans’ skills and promoting their exquisite products.
A Proud Recipient of UNESCO Seal of Excellence and GI Tag
The exceptional efforts of SKKK have been recognized globally, as evidenced by earning the prestigious UNESCO Seal of Excellence for Handicrafts in South Asia in 2004 and 2012. This accolade highlights the center’s commitment to preserving and promoting traditional craftsmanship.
Furthermore, SKKK obtained the Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the craft ‘Sandur Lambani hand embroidery’ in 2008. This GI tag not only safeguards the authenticity of the craft but also provides economic benefits to the Lambani community by ensuring their unique creations are protected from imitation.
Important Points:
Lambani Tribe:
- Originally from Rajasthan, India
- Also known as Lamani, Lambadi, and Banjara
- Believed to have migrated from the Gor province of Afghanistan
- Historically engaged in bullock and salt trade
- Renowned for their vibrant Lambani embroidery, characterized by colorful threads, mirror work, and intricate stitch patterns
- Speak Gor Boli, a language belonging to the Indo-Aryan group, with similarities to Romani, Lomavern, Rajasthani, and Marwari
- Embrace a blend of individual deities and Hinduism in their religious practices
Sandur Kushal Kala Kendra (SKKK):
- Registered as a Society in 1988
- Aims to revive traditional crafts and enhance the livelihoods of Lambani craftswomen
- Earned the prestigious UNESCO Seal of Excellence for Handicrafts in South Asia in 2004 and 2012
- Obtained the Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the craft ‘Sandur Lambani hand embroidery’ in 2008
Importance of the Guinness World Record:
- Recognizes and celebrates the Lambani tribe’s cultural heritage and craftsmanship on a global stage
Significance of Lambani Embroidery:
- A vibrant and intricate form of textile embellishment
- Showcases the creativity and resourcefulness of Lambani craftswomen
Language and Religion of the Lambani Tribe:
- Speak Gor Boli, reflecting the diverse linguistic tapestry of India
- Embrace a syncretic religious approach, worshiping both individual deities and Hindu gods
Preserving Cultural Heritage:
- SKKK plays a crucial role in preserving Lambani traditional crafts and supporting artisans
- UNESCO Seal of Excellence and GI tag provide global recognition and protection to Lambani craft
Call to Action:
- Emphasize the importance of safeguarding and promoting cultural legacies for future generations to cherish and be inspired by.
Why In News
During the 3rd G20 Culture Working Group Meeting held in Hampi, Karnataka, the Prime Minister of India celebrated the remarkable achievement of securing a Guinness World Record for the ‘largest display of Lambani items,’ showcasing an impressive collection of 1755 items at the prestigious Sandur Kushal Kala Kendra. This extraordinary feat not only showcased India’s rich cultural heritage but also highlighted the nation’s commitment to preserving and promoting its diverse traditional arts and crafts on the global stage.
MCQs about Preserving the Rich Craftsmanship of the Lambani Tribe
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What is the main cultural heritage of the Lambani tribe?
A. Traditional dance forms
B. Lambani embroidery
C. Pottery making
D. Wood carving
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Where was the Guinness World Record for the ‘largest display of Lambani items’ achieved?
A. Rajasthan, India
B. Sandur Kushal Kala Kendra, Karnataka, India
C. Afghanistan
D. Hampi, Karnataka, India
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Which language do the Lambanis speak?
A. Tamil
B. Gor Boli
C. Hindi
D. Bengali
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What recognition did the Sandur Kushal Kala Kendra (SKKK) receive for its efforts in preserving Lambani crafts?
A. Guinness World Record
B. Geographical Indication (GI) tag
C. UNESCO Seal of Excellence for Handicrafts
D. National Award for Handicrafts
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