On the 126th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India is working to include Chhath Puja in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, just like Kolkata’s Durga Puja. The move aims to preserve India’s festivals and culture, and present them on a global stage.
PM Modi Working To Get Chhath Puja On UNESCO Heritage List
सूर्यदेव को समर्पित छठ महापर्व बिहार की सांस्कृतिक परंपरा का भव्य और दिव्य उत्सव है। मुझे यह बताते हुए अत्यंत प्रसन्नता हो रही है कि हमारी सरकार इस महापर्व को UNESCO की सांस्कृतिक धरोहर की सूची में शामिल कराने के प्रयासों में जुटी है। #MannKiBaat pic.twitter.com/FSgbiq581B
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 28, 2025
Mann Ki Baat is a radio programme hosted by PM Modi where he addresses the nation on issues of public interest. On the 126th episode on Sunday, he revealed that the government has begun efforts to ensure Chhath Puja is recognised by UNESCO. PM Modi also highlighted that Chhath Puja is an important part of Indian culture. Celebrated after Diwali, the festival is dedicated to the Sun God. Devotees worship the rising and setting sun by offering prayers and water.
PM Modi also took to his X account and wrote, “The grand and divine festival dedicated to Lord Surya, Chhath Mahaparva, is a magnificent celebration of Bihar’s cultural tradition. I am extremely delighted to inform you that our government is engaged in efforts to include this Mahaparva in the list of UNESCO’s cultural heritage.”
Though mainly celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh, Chhath Puja holds deep cultural and spiritual significance across India. In his address, PM Modi said that Chhath Puja is fast becoming a ‘global festival’. If added to UNESCO’s list, it will allow people across the world to experience its divinity.
Spotlight On Indian Culture
He reminded the public that Durga Puja in Kolkata was successfully included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. PM Modi added that this recognition came after consistent efforts by the Indian government. He further emphasised that the global recognition given to festivals in India is a pathway to help the world learn about Indian cultures and traditions.
Chhath Puja is a celebration of faith and nature. It helps strengthen the bond between humans and the environment. PM Modi said that through such efforts, India’s festivals can reach a global audience and enable many people to participate in them. Furthermore, this announcement comes after the success of Kolkata’s Durga Puja’s recognition in 2021. It definitely shines a spotlight on India’s rich culture and festivals.
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In conclusion, we think this is such a great move! What are your thoughts on this? Do let us know.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ psdgangcreatives
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