MP’s UNESCO Digital Innovations

• 17 Apr 2024

Why in News?

In commemoration of World Heritage Day (18th April), Madhya Pradesh Tourism is spearheading notable technological advancements across the state’s United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) listed and tentative heritage sites.

Key Points

• These endeavors underscore a steadfast dedication to heritage preservation while aiming to elevate the visitor experience through cutting-edge technology.
• Renowned for its cultural richness and diversity, Madhya Pradesh proudly boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
  • The Khajuraho Group of Monuments, renowned for its intricate erotic sculptures;
  • The Stupas at Sanchi, among India’s oldest stone structures symbolizing Buddhism.
  • The prehistoric Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka, adorned with ancient rock paintings depicting early human life.
• Complementing these are 10 sites on the Tentative List, including:
  • the picturesque Bhedaghat-Lameta Ghat in Jabalpur, the architecturally significant Mandu Group of Monuments, the historical ensemble of Orchha featuring grand temples and palaces, the biodiversity-rich Satpura Tiger Reserve, the storied Gwalior Fort, the innovative water management system of Khooni Bhandara in Burhanpur, the Rock Art Sites of the Chambal Valley showcasing ancient artistic expressions, the monumental Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple in Bhojpur, culturally significant Gond monuments of Ramnagar and Mandla, and the historical ensemble of Dhamnar illustrating monastic traditions.
• Among the notable advancements are:
  • QR code-based audio guides offering in-depth narratives at major museums and monuments.
  • Captivating lights and sound shows have been introduced in various cities, including Sanchi, Orchha, Mandu,etc.
  • Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR & VR) experiences with Oculus devices, integration of WhatsApp for enhanced convenience, online ticket booking systems for streamlined access, and Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping for meticulous documentation and preservation of the state’s monuments.

Khajuraho Group of Monuments (1986)

• These temples were built during the Chandella dynasty, which reached its pinnacle between 950 and 1050.
• Only 20 temples remain, belonging to two different religions namely-Hinduism and Jainism, including the famous Temple of Kandariya decorated with intricately and beautifully carved sculptures.

Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka (2003)

• These shelters are located within the foothills of Vindhya range, on the southern edge of the central Indian plateau.
• Unearthed in the form of five clusters of natural rock shelters exhibiting paintings that date back to the Mesolithic, and other periods succeeding it.
• The cultural traditions of the inhabitants in surrounding areas are very similar to those displayed in the paintings.

Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi (1989)

• It is the oldest Buddhist sanctuary in existence and was a major Buddhist centre in India until the 12th century A.D.
• Consists of monolithic pillars, palaces, temples and monasteries all in different states of conservation most of which date back to the 2nd and 1st centuries B.C.