Uzbek palov (pilaf) has been inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of UNESCO, following the decision adopted by the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage on 1 December in Ethiopia, the international organization announced.
“The tradition of cooking palov is passed on from master to apprentice, within families, peer groups and community-based institutions, the practice acts to strengthen social ties, promote solidarity and is part of the community’s cultural identity,” the UNESCO committee said.
The traditional dish is prepared with rice, meat, spices and vegetables, and is also enjoyed as a regular meal, to celebrate special occasions, help those in need or honor loved ones who have passed.
The Representative List also included such new items as traditional celebration of Navruz, oshi palav (Tajik pilaf), Romanian carpet, çini (traditional, handmade glazed tiles and ceramics made in Turkey), Viennese wine festival, charrería (equestrian tradition in Mexico) and others.
The Representative List includes forms of expression that testify to the diversity of intangible heritage and raises awareness of its importance. With addition of new items, the list now includes a total of 366 items.
