The Sinhtoo dance, an ancient folk tradition of the Hatti community, is set to make its debut at the 76th Republic Day parade in Delhi. This event marks recognition of the dance, which has been on the verge of extinction. Approximately 200 artists will perform Sinhtoo as part of a larger cultural showcase featuring 5,000 performers representing 45 different dance forms from across India. The selection of Sinhtoo puts stress on the importance of cultural preservation and the promotion of wildlife conservation messages through performing arts.
What is Sinhtoo?
- Sinhtoo is a mask dance performed by the Hatti community in the Giri region of Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh.
- The term “Sinhtoo” translates to “lion cub” in the local Pahari dialect.
- Performers don intricately crafted masks representing various animals, with lion masks taking centre stage.
- This dance form combines vibrant costumes and storytelling elements, making it a unique cultural expression.
Historical Significance
The Sinhtoo dance has deep roots in the Hatti community’s traditions. Historically, costumes were made from sheep’s wool and tree bark. Over time, these materials evolved into woollen outfits and patchwork costumes. The masks, originally crafted from natural materials, now incorporate wood, sawdust, and kidney bean dough. The dance has faced challenges, including a decline in practice, leading to its endangered status.
Recent Developments
In January 2024, the Hatti community was granted Scheduled Tribe (ST) status by the state government after a long-standing advocacy since 1967. This recognition has revitalised interest in their cultural practices, including Sinhtoo. The selection of Sinhtoo for the Republic Day parade is milestone for the community and marks their cultural heritage on a national platform.
Cultural Representation at Republic Day
The Republic Day celebrations aim to showcase India’s diverse cultural tapestry. The inclusion of Sinhtoo reflects the government’s intent to promote lesser-known art forms. Renowned folk artist Joginder Habbi noted that the selection process is competitive, with many entries submitted each year. The decision to feature Sinhtoo aims to draw attention to wildlife conservation and environmental protection.
Current Rehearsals and Preparations
Currently, around 500 artists from Himachal Pradesh are rehearsing in Delhi for the parade. Out of these, 200 are specifically preparing for the Sinhtoo performance. This preparation is crucial, as it not only showcases the dance but also brings awareness to the cultural identity of the Hatti community.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite its selection for the Republic Day parade, Sinhtoo faces challenges related to preservation and practice. The community is working to ensure that the dance is passed down through generations. Increased visibility and appreciation may help revive this endangered art form.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the role of folk dances in preserving cultural heritage in India.
- Discuss the significance of Scheduled Tribe status for indigenous communities in India.
- Critically discuss the impact of cultural performances on wildlife conservation awareness.
- With suitable examples, discuss how government initiatives can aid in the revival of endangered art forms.
Answer Hints:
1. Examine the role of folk dances in preserving cultural heritage in India.
- Folk dances serve as a medium for storytelling, reflecting historical events and cultural narratives.
- They promote community bonding and collective identity among diverse groups.
- Folk dances often incorporate traditional music, costumes, and rituals, preserving these elements for future generations.
- Participation in folk dances encourages intergenerational transmission of cultural practices.
- Government recognition and platforms, like Republic Day, enhance visibility and appreciation of folk traditions.
2. Discuss the significance of Scheduled Tribe status for indigenous communities in India.
- Scheduled Tribe status provides legal recognition and safeguards the rights of indigenous communities.
- It facilitates access to government benefits, including education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
- This status helps in preserving cultural practices and languages unique to these communities.
- It enhances political representation and advocacy for indigenous issues at national and state levels.
- Scheduled Tribe status can boost community morale and pride in cultural heritage.
3. Critically discuss the impact of cultural performances on wildlife conservation awareness.
- Cultural performances often incorporate themes of nature and wildlife, raising public awareness about environmental issues.
- They serve as educational tools, conveying messages about conservation through engaging narratives.
- Art forms can inspire emotional connections to wildlife, encouraging a sense of responsibility towards preservation.
- Collaborations between artists and conservationists can amplify conservation messages effectively.
- Government and NGOs can leverage cultural performances to promote wildlife protection initiatives.
4. With suitable examples, discuss how government initiatives can aid in the revival of endangered art forms.
- Government funding and grants can support workshops and training programs for traditional artists.
- Inclusion of endangered art forms in national events, like Republic Day, increases exposure and appreciation.
- Establishing cultural heritage sites and festivals can create platforms for endangered art forms to be showcased.
- Policies promoting documentation and archiving of traditional arts help in preserving their history and techniques.
- Collaboration with educational institutions can integrate traditional arts into curricula, ensuring their continued practice.
