Kolkata Durga Pooja inscribed on the Intangible Heritage list by the 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 from 13th to 18th December 2021. The Committee commended Durga Pooja for its initiatives to involve marginalized groups, and individuals as well as women in their participation in safeguarding the element.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has expressed happiness over Kolkata Durga Pooja inscribed on the Intangible Heritage list by the UNESCO.

In response to a tweet by UNESCO, the Prime Minister said; “A matter of great pride and joy for every Indian.” Durga Puja highlights the best of our traditions and ethos. And, Kolkata’s Durga Puja is an experience everyone must have.”

G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister for Culture, Tourism and DONER, in a tweet said that this is a recognition of the confluence of our rich heritage, culture, rituals and practices and a celebration of the feminine divinity and the spirit of womanhood.