The SAARC Cultural Centre (SCC), Colombo aims to promote, peace and unity in the SAARC Region through its various cultural activities and publications based on original research on different aspects of cultures of the SAARC Region.
SAARC Culture Journal is an annual research journal of the SAARC Cultural Centre Colombo, which seeks to provide a platform to the academics, practitioners and policy makers of culture in the region to present their research findings and to debate on issues of mutual and common interest. The journal is widely disseminated as an on-line publication to project cultural richness and cultural diversity of the SAARC Region.
Cultural map of South Asia is replete with many forms of tangible and intangible heritage carrying deep socio-cultural significance. This vast repertoire of knowledge is manifested in many forms of cultural expressions. One such form is crafts that are still being consumed by millions of its people, unbeknownst to the knowledge of the majority, that they play an invisible, yet a major role in this process as artisans, traders and consumers.
As such, crafts and craftsmanship has been the bedrock of our civilisation and crafts are not only a testament to creative expression inherent to humans, but also intertwined with values, cultural identities and diverse histories and stories of the various communities of the region.
Creativity, in all likelihood, has been a part and parcel of everyday life in South Asia, which involves many rituals, and celebrations from birth to death presenting a remarkable consonance between humans and nature. The craft map of South Asia, at a glance, is heterogeneous and geographically dispersed with certain craft traditions fast disappearing. While certain crafts face many threats to its sustenance, when it comes to other crafts, the dominant narrative of decline in the craft seems invalid due to successful interventions by various stakeholders involved.
Crafts and craftsmanship in modern times, therefore, sit at the center of a web of many challenges and prospects. Crafts and crafts related industries could constitute one of the most dynamic sectors of the economy if due attention is extended to artistic creations embedded in crafts are protected and promoted not only for attracting capital, but also to sustain, safeguard, and revitalise the rich cultural heritage of South Asia.
In this spirit, the SAARC Culture journal calls for submissions that focuses on various aspects and dimensions of crafts and craftsmen of the South Asian Region under the theme “Celebrating Craftsmanship: Exploring Cultural Heritage in the SAARC Region” focusing on major categories of crafts;
The submissions will look at the crafts of South Asia from a number of perspectives, including but not limited to:
• Growth and prospects of traditional crafts
• To explore the adaptability and viability of crafts and crafts related industries amidst a wide range of socio-economic conditions
• To provide an objective assessment and an analysis of the crafts as an industry
• To analyse diversity of conditions that characterise crafts and craftsmen
• To create informed debate on the crafts and craftsmanship in South Asia
Deadline for Full Paper submissions: 27th September 2024
Submission Guidelines:
PART 1 -ARTICLE GUIDELINES
• All the articles in English as per the SAARC Mandate.
• An abstract of 250-300 words and the full paper including a minimum of 5 keywords.
• Word count 8,000-10,000 words (excluding the abstract and the bibliography)
• Font type -Times New Roman, 12 points
• Line spacing – 1.5
• Page margins – Left: 1.5”
Right/ Top/ Bottom- 1”
• Article Title – Font Size 14 points and Bold
• Article Subtitles: Font size 12 points and Bold
• Organize the Tables, figures, and images in the body of the article.
• Reference Style: MLA (9th Edition)
• Use English: British English spellings
• Enclose references at the end of the article.
• Illustrations – Tables, Figures and Plates:
• Diacritical marks on any word of other languages should be avoided. Such words or phrases must be italicized which are not included in the English Oxford dictionary. As far as possible, footnotes and endnotes are to be avoided. A glossary of words may be provided for all non-English terms used in the text.
• Acknowledgement and Funding statement, if any, is to be placed at the end of the paper just before the references.
• The final decision regarding the publication will be taken by the Editorial Board.
• All submissions will be screened for plagiarism.
PART II-AUTHOR PROFILE GUIDELINES
• Author/s Profile: A short biographical entry of the author in 100 words that include the name with designation, affiliation along with a colour photograph of the author(s) (300 DPI maximum) should be sent along with the abstract.
• It is the responsibility of the author to obtain clearance from the copyright holder for any previously published material, including figures, tables or photographs in the manuscripts.
• Manuscript would be accepted for publication on the understanding that the submitted work is original, unpublished and new contributions, definitions and interpretations.
For this purpose, please submit your declaration (in the format given below) in respect
of your contribution.
“I……………………declare that the article titled ……………has not been previously published or been submitted/ accepted for any other publication”.
………………………………….
Signature
…………………………………
Date
The following criteria provide guidance for the research papers
| Component | Description |
| Title | Title No more than 25 words; Clearly articulates the proposed paper. |
| Background/introduction/research problem (issue) | Provides background information or context to the study highlighting the importance of the topic while noting the gaps that need to be addressed; how it relates to current knowledge, practice or literature; and concludes with a statement of purpose (main aim) or the question to be addressed in the paper. Avoid using in-text citations in the Abstract. |
| Methodology | Provides a summary of how the activity was undertaken, the persons involved, the resources or equipment, the materials used for the interpretation/analysis etc. required, and how the processes or outcomes were documented and evaluated. Quantitative, qualitative or mixed methods are equally acceptable, so long as they are appropriate to the research question or issue. |
| Discussion (Results) | Provides a brief summary of findings or conclusions to be presented in the paper. In other words, what concepts emerged/what was found/what happened. |
| Findings & Conclusion/ Implications | Provides a statement or conclusion concerning the significance of the findings and the future perspective of your research with emphasis on the research’s potential application or impact. |
| Overall quality of the paper | The paper should be well-organised and presented according to the submission guidelines. Originality and relevance of the study is given priority during the selection process. |
LAST DATE FOR THE SUBMISSION OF FULL PAPER: 27th September 2024
Manuscripts and all correspondence should be addressed to:
Deputy Director-Research
SAARC Cultural Centre
224, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 07
Sri Lanka
Email: sccpublications@gmail.com
SAARC Regional Seminar on Intangible Cultural Heritage for Food Storage in the SAARC Region was approved by the Fourteenth Meeting of the Governing Board of the SAARC Cultural Centre held from 22nd to 23rd October 2024, and at the Sixtieth Session of the Programming Committee Meeting held in Kathmandu from 28th to 30th April 2025.
Food storage refers to the process of keeping food items safe and fresh for consumption over an extended period. It involves storing food in a suitable environment to prevent spoilage and contamination and maintain its nutritional value. The methods of food storage/preservation include refrigeration, the use of storage containers etc.
Food preservation, on the other hand, is the process of treating food in a way that prevents or delays spoilage caused by micro-organisms or other factors. Food preservation methods include drying, salting, pickling, fermenting, smoking or using chemical preservatives to extend the shelf life of food.
Food storage/preservation has been integral to South Asian culture for centuries. Traditional food storage/preservation practices encompass a wide range of techniques that preserve food for longer periods and enhance its nutritional value and flavour. Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) for food storage/preservation in the SAARC Region is imbued with tradition and culture. Traditional food storage/preservation knowledge generated a culture that has become part of human history. The SAARC Region has a rich food storage/preservation heritage that has stood the test of time. However, with the advent of modern food storage/preservation systems, these traditional practices are slowly dying away, putting our intangible cultural heritage at risk.
Thus, this seminar aims to promote the appreciation of traditional food storage/preservation practices, a reminder to embrace our traditional practices and preserve our cultural identity. Through discussions and analysis of case studies, the seminar will explore effective methods for transmitting and preserving traditional food storage/preservation practices.
The seminar is designed for two days, inviting papers from experts, academics, scholars and practitioners of traditional food storage/preservation methods from the Member States.
The Seminar aims to address the following research questions:
2.1. What is the impact of the evolution of food storage/preservation practices on the food culture of the SAARC Region?
2.2. What is the role of oral traditions in passing down the intangible heritage of food storage/ preservation?
2.3. In what ways were food storage/preservation practices traditionally divided among genders?
2.4. How can communities safeguard the intangible cultural heritage related to food storage/preservation?
2.5. What are the changes made by modern food storage/preservation methods towards diet and nutritional values when compared to the traditional methods of food storage/ preservation practices?
The main objectives of the Seminar are as follows:
3.1. To investigate how oral traditions contribute to the cultural significance of food storage/preservation practices;
3.2. To examine how gender roles evolved and what their impact is on the current traditional food storage/preservation practices;
3.3. To identify the challenges and threats communities face in preserving these practices and how can they overcome them;
3.4. To explore in what ways, have modern preservation methods affected the traditional techniques of food storage/preservation in terms of diet and nutritional value of the foods;
3.5. To provide a platform for networking and knowledge exchange, facilitating the spread of these practices and encouraging their incorporation into modern lifestyles.
The Seminar will be a blend of theoretical discussions and practical case studies, making it an enriching and interactive experience for the participants.
4.1. Speakers will do oral presentations to share their expertise and insights on the subject.
4.2. Assign session chairs to introduce speakers, manage Q & A sessions and ensure the smooth flow of the Seminar.
4.3. Virtual options will be available for those participants unable to attend physically.
The expected outcomes of the Seminar are the following:
5.1. An increased understanding of the significance of traditional food storage/preservation as part of intangible cultural heritage.
5.2. Development of potential partnerships to support traditional food storage/preservation practices in the SAARC Region.
5.3. Generation of new initiatives aimed at safeguarding and promoting traditional food storage/preservation techniques.
5.4. Dissemination of best practices, case studies and research findings within the SAARC Region through the publication of papers presented at the Seminar and uploading them online on the SAARC Cultural Centre website for free global access.
The following sub-themes have been identified for the seminar. However, papers based on related themes will be accepted depending on their content and relevance to the main themes.
6.1. Traditional Techniques and Knowledge of Food Storage/Preservation
The traditional techniques of food storage/preservation have been developed over centuries to preserve food for a longer period. These techniques vary from region to region like smoking, drying, pickling, fermenting etc. This session seeks contributions that explore the different methods of food storage/preservation practised in the SAARC Region.
6.2. Intersections of Food Storage/Preservation Practices with Cultural Identity and Heritage
Food storage/preservation practices are deeply intertwined with cultural identity and heritage preservation. This session encourages papers that reflect the values, beliefs and traditions of a community, making them an integral part of cultural heritage.
6.3. Oral Traditions Related to Food Storage/Preservation Methods
Oral traditions related to food storage/preservation methods are an integral part of cultural heritage. This session welcomes papers exploring the oral traditions that give insight into the cultural significance of food storage/preservation practices and their role in the community.
6.4. Sustainability and Resilience of Traditional Food Storage/Preservation Practices in the Modern World
Traditional food storage/preservation practices have stood the test of time and have proven to be sustainable and resilient in the modern world. This session seeks contributions that highlight these aspects of traditional food storage/preservation practices.
6.5. Gender Roles and Traditional Food Storage/Preservation
Gender roles have a significant impact on traditional food storage/preservation practices. In many cultures, women are responsible for processing and storing food. In this session, we seek contributions that address the division of labour that has resulted in different techniques and methods of food storage/preservation.
6.6. Revival and Preservation of Endangered Food Storage/Preservation Practices
There is a recent trend of revival of these practices due to their cultural significance and sustainability. Efforts are being made to preserve and promote endangered food storage/preservation practices to keep their cultural heritage alive. In this session, we welcome papers that examine the role played by various organizations and communities to preserve and promote endangered food storage/preservation practices.
6.7. Community-based Approaches to Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage Related to Food Storage/Preservation
The community-based approach to safeguarding intangible cultural heritage related to food storage/preservation is crucial for preserving these practices. Organisations and communities are coming together to document and promote traditional food storage/preservation practices. This session welcomes papers that explore active community participation in knowledge sharing.
Officially Nominated Participants from the Member States
7.1. The SAARC Cultural Centre invites all Member States to send a maximum of Five (5) Official Nominations of experts working on the abovementioned theme from their respective countries for the SAARC Symposium. The Host Member State can nominate a maximum of 15 Official Nominees.
7.2. All Official Nominees must present a paper at the symposium.
Other Participants from the Member States
7.3. The SAARC Cultural Centre would also accept the participation of other experts from the Member States (other than the Official Nominees of the respective SAARC Member States) as well as those residing outside the SAARC Region provided they can meet their travel and accommodation expenses to attend the symposium.
7.4. The SCC, however, reserves the right to accept or reject any request for participation based on the availability of space and the relevance of the abstract to the symposium themes.
25th-27th November 2025
Dr. Bina Gandhi Deori, Deputy Director (Research)
Email: dd-research@saarcculture.org/sccpublications@gmail.com
Download Documents :Full Details, Annexure 1 & Annexure 2
SAARC Cultural Centre, Colombo is presenting its upcoming Fourth Session of the SAARC Talk Series 2024 on 30th April 2024 (Tuesday) at 2:00 pm (Sri Lanka Standard Time). The lecture will be delivered by Dr. Aly Shameem, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Arts, Maldives National University.
Dr. Aly Shameem will deliver his lecture on the topic “Maldives Cultural Music and Dances: Local and Regional Blend of Rich Performing Arts Traditions”.
The presentation is open to public. To attend kindly register at the link given below.
Please click here to register
Meeting link: https://meet.google.com/eto-fgdk-yze
Do spread the word. We look forward to your participation and engaging discussions during this enlightening lecture.
The SAARC Cultural Centre will be screening the award-winning movie “PINK” at the Moon Bastion of the World Heritage City of Galle on 5th April 2024 at 8:30 pm. PINK is a movie portraying three young female professionals facing social and cultural prejudices, political pressure and respect for their choices. It is a movie with strong social meaning which encourages women to speak up in society and fight for their choices.
Pink is directed by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury and was first screened in 2016. The Cast includes Amitabh Bachchan, Taapsee Pannu, Kirti Kulhari, Andrea Tariang, Vijay Varma, etc.
Please join us at the Moon Bastion Open Air to enjoy this uplifting movie.
Date: 5th April 2024 Time: 8:30 pm onwards Location: Moon Bastion of the World Heritage City of Galle
Entrance Free
Introduction
The SAARC Puppetry Day was introduced this year to highlight fast disappearing traditional entertainment of puppetry. The pandemic had rather adverse effect on this traditional entertainment due to travel restrictions and many of the traditional puppetry craftspeople had to leave their trade and look for new avenues of economic support thereby having a detrimental effect on the already disappearing craft. The puppetry tradition in Sri Lanka uses handmade puppets using traditional techniques and methods passed down from generation to generation. This is an attempt by the SAARC Cultural Centre to ensure the intangible heritage of the puppetry traditions of Sri Lanka, both the art of making them and the tradition of using folk stories, Buddhist stories and others to entertain their audiences are brought alive and enjoyed by the SAARC Region.
Puppetry Day Programme
The Puppetry Day will consist of 2 shows:
The Puppeteers use puppets to share folk tales and traditional historical stories of Sri Lanka, etc., passing on the intangible cultural heritage of puppet making, folk lore, historical stories, etc., to the next generation. Some of the stories and events used for the Puppet show are as follows:
This is a FREE Public Event and all are welcome.
SAARC Cultural Centre Presents World Puppetry Day Celebrations On Friday 5th April 2024 At Moon Bastion, World Heritage City of Galle at 7:00 pm . A Special School Show will be held @ 3:00 pm at the Moon Bastion, World Heritage City of Galle.
SAARC Cultural Centre, Colombo is presenting its upcoming Second Session of the SAARC Talk Series 2024 on 20th February 2024 (Tuesday) at 3:00 pm (Sri Lanka Standard Time). The lecture will be delivered by Dr. Shrikant Ganvir, Assistant Professor, Dept of A.I.H.C. and Archaeology, Deccan College PGRI, Deemed to be University, Pune, India.
Dr. Shrikant Ganvir will deliver his lecture on the topic “Sacred Landscape of the Buddhist Monastic Sites of North-eastern Andhra Pradesh, India”.
The presentation is open to public. To attend kindly register at the link given below.
Please click here to register
Meeting link: https://meet.google.com/dnq-eyuq-asi
Do spread the word. We look forward to your participation and engaging discussions during this enlightening lecture.
SAARC Cultural Centre, Colombo is presenting its upcoming First Session of the SAARC Talk Series 2024 on 30th January 2024 (Tuesday) at 3:00 pm (Sri Lanka Standard Time). The lecture will be delivered by Prof. Swadhin Sen, Department of Archaeology, Jahangirnagar University, Bangladesh.
Prof. Swadhin Sen will deliver his lecture on the topic “Breaking the Spatiotemporal Boundaries of Continuity and Change: Thinking About Archaeology of Bangladesh”.
The presentation is open to public. To attend kindly register at the link given below.
Please click here to register
Meeting link: https://meet.google.com/utq-jgep-cre
Do spread the word. We look forward to your participation and engaging discussions during this enlightening lecture.
SAARC Cultural Centre, Colombo is presenting its upcoming Eighth SAARC Talk Series on 6th December 2023 (Wednesday) at 2:00 pm (Sri Lanka Standard Time). The lecture will be delivered by Eng.(Dr.) Sanath Panawennage, Director General and Chief Executive of the Arthur C Clarke Institute for Modern Technologies, Colombo,Sri Lanka
Eng.(Dr.) Sanath Panawennage will deliver his lecture on the topic “Preserving South Asia’s Cultural Heritage: ‘Space’ as a Decisive Enabler”.
The presentation is open to public. To attend kindly register at the link given below.
Please click here to register
Meeting link: https://meet.google.com/jfz-krot-mnm
Do spread the word. We look forward to your participation and engaging discussions during this enlightening lecture.
SAARC Cultural Centre, Colombo is presenting its upcoming Seventh SAARC Talk Series on 24th November 2023 (Friday) at 3:00 pm (Sri Lankan Standard Time). The lecture will be delivered by Kamalika Bose, Urban Conservationist, Founder-Principal, Heritage Synergies India.
Kamalika Bose will deliver her lecture on the topic “Building Regional Cooperation through Shared Cultural Heritage of Kolkata and Dhaka”.
The presentation is open to public. To attend kindly register at the link given below.
Please click here to register
Meeting link: https://meet.google.com/ois-xcky-nfn
Do spread the word. We look forward to your participation and engaging discussions during this enlightening lecture.
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