Will Kolkata's Durga Puja Be On A UNESCO List Soon

Every year, countries from around the world submit their nominations for the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. These are a list of cultural institutions, social practices, rituals, events, arts, and knowledge and skills from around the world that are &lsquoin need of urgent safeguarding&rsquo.

From India, it is the Sangeet Natak Akademi, under the Union Ministry of Culture that is responsible for drawing up the representative list for submission. And 2020&rsquos entry submission from India is the Durga Puja. During the 10-day long festival, the streets of Kolkata come absolutely alive. Bonedi baris, pandals, immersions, street food, pujos&mdashthere is culture and festivity to be celebrated in every corner.  

As per the Akademi&rsquos website &ldquoDurga Puja is the best instance of the public performance of religion and art in the city. It witnesses a celebration of craftsmanship, cross-cultural transactions and cross-community revelry.&rdquo

In the past, some other nominations from india have included yoga, kumbh mela, chhau dance, and Kuttiyattam, among others.