Why in the News?
Boreendo, an ancient traditional musical instrument from Pakistan, has been inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.
About Boreendo
• Also known as Bhorindo
• Traditional wind instrument from the Sindh region of Pakistan
• Believed to be around 5,000 years old
• Origins traced to Mohenjo Daro of the Indus Valley Civilisation
Physical Features
• Hollow spherical body with sound holes
• Made of clay that is sun dried and kiln fired
• Decorated using clay paint
Cultural Practices
• Played mainly by men
• Women traditionally decorate the instrument
• Used during winter bonfires, weddings, and local festivals
UNESCO Significance
• Listed under Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding
• Recognition highlights the risk of decline due to reduced practitioners and changing cultural practices
• Aims to promote preservation, transmission, and awareness of the art form
Prelims Pointers
• Region: Sindh, Pakistan
• Material: Clay
• Type: Wind musical instrument
• Civilisational link: Indus Valley Civilisation
• UNESCO list focuses on endangered living traditions
| The famous female figurine known as ‘Dancing Girl’, found at Mohenjo-daro, is made of: (2025)
(a) carnelian (b) clay (c) bronze (d) gold |
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