UNESCO nomination process
Chhath Mahaparva moves towards UNESCO recognition: The Government of India has initiated steps to nominate Chhath Mahaparva for inclusion in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity under UNESCO. The process requires strong documentation, consent of communities, and international cooperation. The Sangeet Natak Akademi is preparing the official dossier, supported by the Ministry of Culture and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).
International cooperation
Officials have engaged with diplomats from the UAE, Suriname, and the Netherlands, countries with significant Indian diaspora communities that celebrate the festival. Indian embassies in Mauritius and Fiji are also extending support. This multinational approach strengthens the nomination by showcasing the festival’s global presence.
Static GK fact: UNESCO’s 2003 Convention on the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage provides the framework for such nominations.
About Chhath Mahaparva
Chhath Mahaparva is a four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. It is most prominent in Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and parts of West Bengal. Rituals include fasting, river or pond bathing, and offerings to the rising and setting sun. The festival emphasises ecological balance, social harmony, and inclusiveness.
Static GK fact: The first day of Chhath is called Nahay Khay, followed by Lohanda and Kharna, Sandhya Arghya, and Usha Arghya.
India’s intangible heritage portfolio
India already has 15 cultural elements listed by UNESCO, such as Vedic chanting, Kutiyattam theatre, Ramlila, Chhau dance, Yoga, Kumbh Mela, and Durga Puja in Kolkata. If inscribed, Chhath Mahaparva will join this list, reinforcing India’s leadership in cultural preservation.
Static GK Tip: India ratified the UNESCO Convention for Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2005.
Significance of Chhath Mahaparva
Chhath Mahaparva is among India’s oldest living traditions, symbolising reverence for nature. It unites communities across caste and religion, encouraging equality and collective participation. Its ecological ethos reflects sustainable practices, making it relevant for global cultural discussions. Recognition by UNESCO would ensure its preservation for future generations while strengthening India’s cultural diplomacy.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Chhath Mahaparva moves towards UNESCO recognition:
| Topic | Detail |
| Festival nominated | Chhath Mahaparva |
| Nominating body | Ministry of Culture, India |
| Supporting institution | Sangeet Natak Akademi |
| Other collaborators | IGNCA, Ministry of External Affairs |
| Diaspora countries involved | UAE, Suriname, Netherlands, Mauritius, Fiji |
| Duration of festival | Four days |
| Deities worshipped | Sun God and Chhathi Maiya |
| Main states of celebration | Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal |
| Key rituals | Fasting, river bathing, offering prayers to rising and setting sun |
| India’s existing UNESCO elements | 15 cultural elements including Yoga, Ramlila, Kumbh Mela, Durga Puja |
