Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: BS
Context: The International Council on Monuments and Sites, a UNESCO advisory body, has recommended that Santiniketan be included in the list of World Heritage Sites.
About Santiniketan
| Santiniketan is a renowned cultural and educational institution (comprising Viswa Bharati University) located in the Birbhum District of West Bengal, India. | |
| Meaning of Name | Santiniketan literally means “abode of peace” in Bengali. |
| Origin | Initially, it started as an ashram (hermitage) founded by Rabindra Nath Tagore’s father, Debendranath Tagore, but eventually developed into a centre of art, culture, and learning. |
| Teaching | It is known for its unique educational philosophy, which emphasizes the integration of nature, creativity, and holistic learning. It follows the concept of an open-air classroom where students are encouraged to learn in close connection with nature. |
| Key Features | Santiniketan is also adorned with splendid sculptures, frescoes, murals, and paintings created by renowned artists such as Rabindranath Tagore, Nandalal Bose (one of the pioneers of modern Indian art) and Ramkinkar Baij (master sculptor and painter) among others. |
| Significance | Cultural and heritage place, associated with Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore |
| West Bengal’s Representation | If selected, Santiniketan would be the second cultural symbol from West Bengal to be included in the UNESCO list (1st being ‘Durga Puja in Kolkata’ in UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, 2021) |
| UNESCO World Heritage | Landmarks or areas selected for their cultural, historical, scientific, or other significant value |
| Selection Criteria | Sites must be already-classified landmarks, unique and significant culturally or physically |
| World Heritage Committee | Selects and monitors World Heritage Sites, manages the World Heritage Fund, and provides financial assistance |
| Membership | India is a member of the World Heritage Committee (2021-2025) |
