Which of the following statements about the Kalbelia community and their performing tradition are correct?
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Kalbelia artistes seldom record their traditions because the art form is rooted in an oral, nomadic culture.
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Their costumes typically avoid stitched designs as a mark of respect for serpent-related rituals.
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The community’s art was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list without a formal written application.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is option 1 i.e. Only 1.
- Statement 1 is correct because the Kalbelia community, traditionally snake-charmers and nomads of Rajasthan, rely heavily on oral transmission. Their music, dance, and storytelling are passed down through generations without written documentation, so recordings are uncommon.
- Statement 2 is incorrect. Kalbelia costumes—especially the women’s black ghagra and angriya—feature heavy embroidery, mirror work, and stitched patterns. There is no cultural rule avoiding stitched designs.
- Statement 3 is also incorrect. The Kalbelia dance was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2010, but only after a formal written nomination submitted by the Government of India, as required for all UNESCO ICH listings.