Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) represents the living expressions of culture that communities recognize as part of their identity. It includes traditions, knowledge, skills, performing arts, social practices, rituals, festive events, and traditional craftsmanship that are continuously created and transmitted from generation to generation. Rooted in everyday life, ICH evolves through interactions with history, nature, and the social environment and is primarily passed on through practice and oral tradition.

Over time, the concept of cultural heritage has expanded beyond monuments and physical artifacts. UNESCO has emphasized that “cultural heritage does not end at monuments and collections of objects”, highlighting the importance of living heritage in maintaining cultural diversity, social cohesion, and mutual respect in an increasingly globalized world. While fragile, intangible cultural heritage plays a vital role in strengthening community identity and ensuring cultural continuity.

UNESCO’s efforts to safeguard ICH began with the Proclamation of Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 1997 and were further strengthened by the adoption of the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2003. This Convention established a global framework to protect, promote, and transmit living heritage through community participation and international cooperation.

Sri Lanka has inscribed three elements on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity: Rukada Natya, Dumbara Rata Kalalaya, and Kithul Tapping . These inscriptions reflect the richness of Sri Lanka’s living traditions and knowledge systems.

The safeguarding of Sri Lanka’s intangible cultural heritage is strengthened by the continued support and commitment of the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs and the National Library and Documentation Services Board, whose contributions play a vital role in preserving and promoting living heritage for future generations.