A proud moment for Kolkata and India as UNESCO added Durga Puja into its prestigious list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (ICH). Commendations and praises poured in from all sectors internationally as well as from various parts of India, for the acclaimed credit and pride.
The heritage status is sure to boost up tourism in the state of West Bengal and simultaneously in the country, a moment of pride for the Indians. In a tweet message, UNESCO stated, “Durga Puja in Kolkata has just been inscribed on the intangible heritage list. Congratulations India,” along with the image of the Goddess Durga and hashtag #livingheritage.
As per the reports, the state government of West Bengal issued a statement, which mentioned, “It is our proud and historic moment. It is a red-letter day for us. Our congratulations to all the people of Bengal, country and the world. We convey our thanks and gratitude to UNESCO for the recognition bestowed on this great festival as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity”.
Significance of the inclusion of Durga Puja
The meeting of the 16th Committee of UNESCO for safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) was held on 15th December, 2021 in Paris. The inclusion of Durga Puja on the representative list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, was decided at the meeting. The decision is significant for India as it symbolises the importance of the festival for the people of Bengal.
The decision was approved by an Evaluation body comprising of six experts; who evaluated 48 nominations and selected Durga Puja. The unique aspect of the decision is Durga Puja being recognised as the first festival in Asia in ICH list.
UNESCO has beautifully illustrated the five day long festival as being traditional, promoting the talents and skills of artists and designers. The organisation elaborated Durga Puja as being a heritage for art and religion combined. It specifically mentioned about the Bengal drums being used during the festival as a mark of respect for the Goddess.
Augmenting tourism in Bengal and India
The recognition of Durga Puja is symbolical for Bengal and Indian tourism sector. The message conveyed by the UNESCO will be phenomenal in spreading the rich cultural heritage of the country, internationally. The history, culture and art of Bengal is old and rich. Tourists all around the world will be enticed by the heritage and traditions prevailing in this country. It is definitely a great opportunity for the tourism sector in India to flourish and prosper.
Accolades on such an exemplary accomplishment
Messages have started pouring in from various dignitaries, expressing happiness and pride at the announcement from the UNESCO.
Expressing joy and gratitude, Ms Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, tweeted, "Proud moment for Bengal! To every #Bengali across the world, Durga Puja is much more than a festival, it is an emotion that unites everyone. And now, #DurgaPuja has been added to the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. We are all beaming with joy!"
Congratulating on the achievement, Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, tweeted, "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."
Jubilant over the decision, Home Minister, Amit Shah, also tweeted, "The auspicious Durga Puja reflects India’s splendid cultural heritage and spirit of unity. It is great to learn that this iconic festival has been inscribed on UNESCO’s #IntangibleHeritage list. Every Indian is immensely proud".
On the final thoughts
It is indeed an accomplishment which must be cherished by all Indians. And the decision will surely increase the value and significance of India in the international arena. People from different parts of the world can recognise and appreciate the cultural values that bind the people of the country.
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