India Pushes for UNESCO Recognition of Chhath Puja: A Cultural Milestone

The Indian government is taking steps to have Chhath Puja recognized by UNESCO. The Chhathi Maiya Foundation has been a key player in this effort. Chhath Puja, representing faith, culture, and environmentalism, is now moving towards international recognition. The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, issued a formal order via letter F.No.U-11/134/2018-UNESCO on August 8, 2025, to support this initiative. The guidance of Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, has been invaluable. Following an initial request from the Chhathi Maiya Foundation, the government has instructed the Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA) to formally begin the process of including Chhath Puja on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.