The Role of Urban Haats in Preserving Intangible Cultural Heritage

Urban haats play a crucial role in safeguarding India’s intangible cultural heritage by offering vibrant, inclusive platforms where traditional crafts, folk performances, oral traditions, culinary heritage, and regional festivals come alive in urban settings. In a time of rapid modernity and globalization, these haats serve as cultural pillars that bind individuals to their heritage. This paper explores how urban haats contribute to the revival and sustenance of dying art forms, empower local communities, and promote cultural exchange, all while enriching the urban experience. The study uses real-life examples and case studies to analyse the impact and challenges of urban haats and offers suggestions for their improvement.