On December 6, UNESCO officially recognized Gujarat's traditional dance form, 'Garba,' by including it in the prestigious list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. This marks the 15th cultural item from India to attain this distinction, following Kolkata's Durga Puja, which was added two years ago.

The Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, during its 18th session in Kasane, Botswana from December 5 to 9, 2023, inscribed 'Garba of Gujarat' on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, as announced in a statement by UNESCO.

This recognition falls under the provisions of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage. UNESCO described 'Garba' as a ritualistic and devotional dance prevalent throughout Gujarat and across India, celebrating the worship of feminine energy during the nine-day festival of Navaratri.

The dance is a unique manifestation of worshiping the divine feminine, representing the primordial goddess. Tim Curtis, Director of UNESCO New Delhi Regional Office for South Asia, expressed hope that the inscription would contribute to preserving the tradition and inspire future generations.

To commemorate this momentous occasion, a troupe of eight dancers from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) showcased Garba at the UNESCO meeting venue. The Government of Gujarat organized various curated 'Garba' events across the state to celebrate this significant achievement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his joy over the global recognition, highlighting Garba as a celebration of life, unity, and deep-rooted traditions. He emphasized that this honor showcased the beauty of Indian culture to the world and inspired efforts to preserve and promote heritage for future generations.

In addition to 'Garba of Gujarat,' other newly inscribed elements include Rickshaws and Rickshaw painting in Dhaka from Bangladesh, Songkran in Thailand, Hiragasy (a performing art of the Central Highlands of Madagascar), Junkanoo from the Bahamas, and the Procession and celebrations of Prophet Mohammed’s birthday in Sudan, among others.

The current list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, under the 2003 UNESCO Convention, comprises 704 elements from 143 countries and five regions, reflecting the diversity of intangible heritage and emphasizing its global importance.