The renowned Rath Yatra festival of Lord Jagannath in Puri is currently under consideration for UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage recognition. The nomination dossier was successfully submitted in 2025 after earlier attempts between 2022 and 2024 did not come to fruition. A key UNESCO meeting scheduled in Paris later this year is expected to decide on the festival’s inclusion.
The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has expressed optimism about the process, with the possibility of a UNESCO team visiting Puri during the upcoming Rath Yatra for an on-site evaluation. The festival is already listed on the National Heritage List by the Sangeet Natak Akademi under India’s Ministry of Culture.
Officials highlight that UNESCO recognition would help promote the authentic traditions, rituals, and cultural importance of the Rath Yatra on a global platform. It is also seen as a measure to prevent unauthorized or premature Rath Yatras held elsewhere. The festival’s deep roots in mythology and its historical continuity contribute to its cultural richness.
India has several festivals with UNESCO heritage status, including Kumbh Mela and Durga Puja. The Rath Yatra, with its massive participation of over 1.5 million devotees during the Gundicha Yatra, is supported by both the Odisha government and Indian Railways, which have emphasized its architectural and ritual significance.
Preparations are underway to ensure the upcoming festival is grand and memorable. Further official updates on the UNESCO nomination process are awaited.
This local update is prepared from publicly available information. Readers should verify critical details from official communication where necessary.