Overview
- UNESCO confirmed the inscription on December 10 during the 20th Intergovernmental Committee session at the Red Fort, the first time India has hosted the meeting.
- UNESCO announced the decision on its official X account, and delegates adopted India’s nomination without debate as evaluators praised the dossier and advised strengthening ecological and inclusive practices.
- With Deepavali added, India’s tally on the Representative List rises to 16 elements, following a 2023 nomination coordinated by the Sangeet Natak Akademi through nationwide community consultations.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior ministers hailed the recognition, calling it a proud moment that boosts global visibility while underscoring the responsibility to keep the festival a living heritage.
- New Delhi staged curated performances, lighting rituals and exhibitions for more than 1,000 international delegates as the committee examines 67 nominations, with India indicating Chhath Puja for a future cycle.