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Key Points

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted India's efforts to secure UNESCO recognition for Chhath Puja, a vibrant festival celebrating ecological harmony and devotion. The festival, primarily celebrated in eastern Indian states, involves intricate rituals honoring the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. By seeking global acknowledgment, India aims to showcase the cultural depth and spiritual significance of this unique tradition. The initiative follows the successful UNESCO listing of Durga Puja in 2021, demonstrating India's commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage.

Key Points: Modi Seeks UNESCO Tag for Chhath Puja Cultural Heritage

  • Modi champions Chhath Puja for UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list
  • Festival celebrates ecological harmony and sun worship
  • Predominantly observed in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern UP
  • Ritual involves four-day devotional practices at riverbanks
2 min read

India striving to include 'Chhath Puja' for UNESCO heritage status, PM Modi highlights in 'Mann Ki Baat'

PM highlights Chhath Puja's spiritual significance, seeks global recognition for ancient sun worship festival connecting nature and community

"Chhath is a festival that connects us to rivers, sunlight, and purity. - PM Narendra Modi"

New Delhi, Sep 28

In his latest 126th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' address on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India is actively working to include Chhath Puja in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list, a move aimed at "recognising the deep cultural and spiritual significance of the festival".

The Prime Minister emphasised that Chhath Puja is not just a ritual but a vibrant expression of ecological harmony, devotion, and community participation.

Chhath Puja, predominantly celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal, honours the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya.

Devotees offer prayers at riverbanks and ponds, observing rigorous fasts and rituals that span four days.

The festival is known for its emphasis on cleanliness, environmental awareness, and collective celebration, often involving entire neighbourhoods and families.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted how Chhath Puja reflects India's ancient traditions of nature worship and sustainable living.

He noted that the festival's rituals - such as offering 'arghya' to the setting and rising sun - symbolise gratitude and reverence for natural forces.

Chhath is a festival that connects us to rivers, sunlight, and purity. It is a celebration of faith and nature. The announcement follows the successful inclusion of Durga Puja in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2021, which brought global recognition to Bengal's iconic celebration.

The Prime Minister expressed hope that Chhath Puja would similarly gain international acknowledgement, showcasing India's rich cultural diversity and spiritual depth. Efforts are underway by the Ministry of Culture and other stakeholders to prepare the nomination dossier for UNESCO, which involves documenting the festival's history, practices, and community involvement.

Cultural experts and historians have welcomed the move, stating that Chhath Puja deserves global recognition for its unique blend of devotion, ecology, and social unity.

The Prime Minister's mention of Chhath Puja in 'Mann Ki Baat' will spark enthusiasm among devotees and cultural advocates, especially in regions where the festival is a cornerstone of identity.

If accepted, Chhath Puja will join the ranks of globally celebrated traditions, reinforcing India's position as a custodian of living heritage. The initiative reflects a broader push to preserve and promote India's intangible cultural assets on the world stage, ensuring that festivals rooted in local traditions receive the respect and visibility they deserve.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Wonderful initiative! Chhath Puja beautifully combines spirituality with environmental consciousness. The way devotees maintain cleanliness around water bodies during the festival sets an example for sustainable celebrations. Hope UNESCO recognizes this unique aspect.
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Michael C
As someone who witnessed Chhath Puja in Patna last year, I was amazed by the devotion and community spirit. The synchronized prayers at sunrise, the traditional songs, and the family bonding - it's truly special. Great move to showcase India's cultural diversity.
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Anjali F
While I appreciate the recognition, I hope the government also focuses on improving facilities at ghats and ensuring safety of devotees. Many women stand in water for hours, and better infrastructure would make the festival more comfortable for everyone.
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Siddharth J
Chhath Puja transcends religious boundaries - I've seen people from all communities participating and helping with arrangements. This is the real India we should showcase to the world! The ecological message of respecting nature is so relevant today.
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Kavya N
My mother has been observing Chhath for 25 years. The dedication and purity of this festival is unmatched. From preparing traditional prasad to the final arghya, every step has deep meaning. UNESCO recognition would honor millions of women who keep this tradition alive. ✨

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