For the first time in Asia, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has inscribed Kolkata’s Durga Puja on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, giving Bengalis and Indians cause for celebration.
“Durga Puja in Kolkata has now been placed on the intangible heritage list,” UNESCO stated on Twitter, accompanied by a photo of the Durga idol. India, you have won.”
“This is Durga Puja, and it is a great and historic occasion for us. It’s a special day for us. Our best wishes go out to the people of Bengal, the country, and the entire world. “We express our gratitude to UNESCO for designating this wonderful festival as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity,” West Bengal stated in a statement.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her joy on social media, writing, “Proud time for Bengal! Durga Puja is much more than a celebration to every Bengali around the world; it is a feeling that binds everyone. Durga Puja has officially been added to the Representative List of Humanity’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. We’re all bursting with delight!”
Durga Puja in Kolkata was inscribed on the representative list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the 16th Committee of UNESCO for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) during its meeting on December 15 in Paris. The inclusion of the Durga Puja in the list of humanity’s intangible heritage shows the festival’s prominence in Bengal’s public life.
“A subject of tremendous pride and excitement for every Indian!” Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, praising the breakthrough. Durga Puja celebrates the best of our culture and values. And Durga Puja in Kolkata is an experience that everyone should have.”
