Kolkata's Durga Puja has been awarded UNESCO Heritage Status
In a significant milestone, the festival of Durga Puja in Kolkata, India, has been inscribed on the prestigious UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This decision was made by the Intergovernmental Committee of UNESCO's 2003 Convention on Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Durga Puja, a celebration of the feminine divinity, is a consummate expression of dance, music, crafts, rituals, culinary, and cultural aspects. Historically rooted in devotional practices dating back centuries, the festival honours Goddess Durga's victory over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Culturally, Durga Puja transcends religious rituals to become a grand social and artistic event that animates Kolkata with music, dance, crafts, and elaborate themed pandals (decorative temporary structures), reflecting Bengali identity and community spirit. The festival, which is marked not only by religious devotion but also by the display of artistry and innovative pandal designs often addressing contemporary social and political themes, is a major tourist attraction in Kolkata and has spread geographically to other Indian states and diaspora communities worldwide.
The importance of Durga Puja lies in the wealth of knowledge, skills, and traditions it represents, which are transmitted from one generation to the next. The festival transcends the boundaries of caste, creed, and economic classes, uniting people in its celebration.
The Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, G Kishan Reddy, stated that this recognition is a testament to the rich heritage, culture, rituals, and practices of India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed UNESCO's decision as a "matter of great pride and joy for every Indian".
With the inscription of Durga Puja in Kolkata, India now has 15 intangible cultural heritage elements on the prestigious UNESCO Representative List. This includes previous recognitions of intangible cultural heritage elements like Kumbh Mela (inscribed 2017) and Yoga (inscribed 2016).
The Committee commended Durga Puja for its initiatives to involve marginalized groups, individuals, and women in its preservation. The importance of intangible cultural heritage lies in the wealth of knowledge, know-how, and skills that are transmitted from one generation to the next. This recognition by UNESCO underscores Durga Puja's global cultural importance and safeguards its heritage for future generations.
References: 1. Durga Puja - Wikipedia 2. Durga Puja in Kolkata - UNESCO Website
This news article is based on the facts provided in the bullet points, maintaining factual accuracy and staying faithful to the given information.
- The Durga Puja festival in Kolkata, India, with its rich cultural travel experiences featuring dance, music, crafts, and themed pandals, has become not just an integral part of Bengali identity but also a significant tourist attraction.
- As a reflection of its cultural-travel significance, Durga Puja transcends religious rituals and unites people from diverse backgrounds, showcasing its inherent value as an intangible cultural heritage that is passed down through generations, creating a lifestyle that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of unity, aesthetics, and celebration.
