India has initiated a multinational nomination of Chhath festival for inscription on UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

About Chhath Puja

• Introduction: Chhath is one of India’s oldest festivals, dedicated to the Sun God and Goddess Chhathi Maiya.
• Predominantly celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and among diaspora communities in Mauritius, Fiji, Suriname, UAE, and the Netherlands.
• Cultural Significance
• • Known for its ecological ethos, promoting reverence for nature, water bodies, and sustainability.
  • Strongly egalitarian as it transcends caste, creed, and religion.
  • Rituals emphasize simplicity, self-discipline, devotion, and community spirit.

UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List

• Introduction: UNESCO’s 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage aims to protect and promote cultural practices, knowledge, and traditions.
• UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritages of India: (15 as of September 2025)
  • Kumbh Mela (ritual festival), Yoga (ancient spiritual practice), Nawrouz (Persian New Year, shared tradition), Ramlila (theatrical performance of Ramayana), Kalbelia folk songs and dances (Rajasthan), Mudiyettu and Koodiyattam (Kerala temple traditions), Durga Puja (West Bengal)
  • Others include Chhau dance, Sankirtana, Vedic chanting, and Traditional brass and copper craft of Punjab (Thatheras of Jandiala Guru).
• Significance: Recognition helps preserve living traditions, promotes cultural diversity, and enhances global awareness of community practices.

Additional Reading: Intangible Cultural Heritage 

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