Royal women lead the fight to preserve India’s cultural heritage

As India races towards modernization, a silent battle is being fought to protect its rich cultural heritage. From ancient manuscripts to royal textiles and traditional cuisines, the responsibility for preservation often falls on individuals rather than institutions. 

exchange4media PR & Corp Comm Women Achievers Summit 2024 saw a discussion among a few determined women from families who are taking it upon themselves to safeguard legacies.

Heritage conservation is a daunting task. Ancient Sanskrit texts remain at risk of disappearing, textile traditions face the threat of mass production, and indigenous agricultural practices are being replaced by commercial farming. Yet, amidst these challenges, a few dedicated custodians continue to fight for their cultural roots.

Ritu Singh: Balancing Heritage and Progress in Jammu & Kashmir 

Kunwarrani Ritu Singh of Jammu & Kashmir has taken a unique approach to cultural preservation, blending Rajput traditions with her Punjabi-Maharashtrian heritage. She underscores the importance of self-belief and resilience in safeguarding these traditions, stating, "Holding your own is extremely important."

Beyond tradition, Ritu has placed strong emphasis on education as a tool for preservation and progress. "Education and wealth are keys to progression," she notes. Her stewardship of the historic Hari Mahal Hotel, which houses a rare manuscript library including the Mal Dhanjani series of Punni nature art, is a testament to her efforts in keeping history alive.

Mahima Kumari of Bikaner: Rescuing Rajasthan’s Textile Heritage

Traditional textiles, once symbols of India's royal history, are struggling against the forces of globalization and mechanization. Princess Mahima Kumari of Bikaner, along with her sister Siddhi, has worked to restore and promote their family’s sartorial heritage by establishing a museum dedicated to showcasing Rajasthan’s traditional royal attire.

Her efforts extend beyond textiles. The Bikaner royal family has historically played a significant role in cattle rearing, particularly in preserving the indigenous Rathi Gai breed. "Despite challenges, we must continue these traditions to safeguard our cultural identity," she asserts, linking agriculture and heritage preservation as intertwined pursuits crucial to Rajasthan’s economy.

Shailja Katoch: Keeping Culinary Traditions Alive

Maharani Shailja Katoch of Kangra-Lambagraon has taken a different approach to cultural preservation—through food. Himachali vegetarian cuisine, particularly the age-old tradition of "dham," is at risk of fading from public consciousness. Prepared by Brahmin cooks known as botis, dham is a communal feast that has historically united people across social classes.

Katoch, inspired by the deep culinary traditions of her new home, has dedicated herself to documenting and promoting these foods. She credits her husband’s initiative in establishing the Maharaja Sansar Chandra Museum as another crucial step in preserving Kangra’s history. Additionally, she draws from her grandfather’s book, Cooking Delights of the Maharajas, which archives royal recipes from across India. "Food is a gateway to understanding our heritage," she states, emphasizing the role of cuisine in cultural identity.

The Road Ahead: Who Will Carry the Burden?

The future of India's cultural heritage remains uncertain. While these royal custodians continue their work, they acknowledge that heritage conservation is still largely an individual effort rather than a structured, well-supported movement. Funding for digitization projects remains scarce, museums struggle for resources, and traditional practices are at risk of vanishing as younger generations move away from their roots.

"All this is done by these ladies and their families because they have a legacy to preserve," the audience noted, pointing out the urgent need for institutional support. Government and corporate sectors must step in to provide the necessary backing, whether through funding, policy interventions, or awareness programs.

In a rapidly changing world, the past can only survive if the present makes a concerted effort to protect it. These women have taken the first steps—now, it is up to society to decide whether India's heritage will be safeguarded for future generations or lost to the forces of time.