UNESCO adds Durga Puja to its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

• Integrity Education, Delhi
• 16, Dec 2021

Durga Puja in Kolkata has been inscribed on the Intangible Heritage list by UNESCO. In an important announcement, the Intergovernmental Committee of UNESCO’s 2003 Convention on Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage has inscribed ‘Durga Puja in Kolkata’ on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during its 16th session being held at Paris, France. The Committee commended Durga Puja for its initiatives to involve marginalized groups, and individuals as well as women in their participation in safeguarding the element.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that it is a matter of great pride and joy for every Indian. In a tweet, he said, Durga Puja highlights the best of Indian traditions and ethos and Kolkata’s Durga Puja is an experience everyone must have.

Culture Minister G Kishen Reddy said that this is a recognition of the confluence of India's rich heritage, culture, rituals and practices and a celebration of the feminine divinity and the spirit of womanhood.

Durga Puja not only is a celebration of the feminine divinity but is a consummate expression of dance, music, crafts, rituals, practices culinary and cultural aspects. The festival transcends the boundaries of caste, creed and economic classes and joins the people together in its celebration.

Sources : News On Air