Gujarat’s iconic Garba dance has been inscribed on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel shared this historic news, celebrating the cultural richness and inclusivity embedded in the traditional dance.
This recognition, granted under the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, marks the 15th element from India to join this distinguished list. Garba, a dance deeply rooted in ritualistic and devotional traditions, plays a pivotal role in promoting social and gender inclusivity.
Union Culture Minister G Kishan Reddy expressed the nation’s pride, emphasizing Garba’s symbolic representation of celebration, devotion, gender inclusivity, and social equality. The dance’s inscription is seen as a testament to the Indian government’s relentless efforts to showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage globally.
The UNESCO New Delhi cluster office shared the excitement on social media, proclaiming, “Excited to share that #Garba of Gujarat is now India’s 15th inscription on the @UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity!”
Garba, traditionally performed during Navratri to honor feminine energy or Shakti, brings diverse communities together in a celebration of cultural vibrancy. Previous Indian inclusions in the prestigious list include Durga Puja in Kolkata (2021), Kumbh Mela (2017), and Yoga (2016). The inscription of Garba reaffirms India’s commitment to preserving and promoting its rich cultural heritage on the global stage.
