Pm Modi Advocates For Chhath — here’s what’s new, why it matters, and what to watch next.
PM Modi Advocates for Chhath Mahaparva UNESCO Recognition in Mann Ki Baat
In his latest episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced significant government efforts to have Chhath Mahaparva listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. This initiative aims to recognize the festival’s cultural significance and global appeal. During the address, which aired on September 28, 2025, Modi also took time to commend the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for its centenary celebration, highlighting its contributions to society and culture over the past century.
At a Glance
- Event: Mann Ki Baat address by PM Modi
- Key Announcements: Efforts for UNESCO recognition of Chhath Mahaparva, praise for RSS’s 100 years of service
- Cultural Focus: Highlighting grassroots entrepreneurship and community service initiatives
- Date of Address: September 28, 2025
- Public Engagement: Increased public participation in the festival as citizens rally to support the initiative.
- Documentation and Research: Efforts to document the rituals, traditions, and significance of Chhath Mahaparva as part of the UNESCO application process.
- Potential Challenges: Navigating the bureaucratic processes involved in securing UNESCO recognition, including addressing any objections or concerns that may arise during the application.
Background & Timeline
Chhath Mahaparva, primarily celebrated in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, is a festival dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, and his wife, Usha. It involves rigorous rituals and celebrations that last for four days and is marked by fasting, prayers, and offerings. The festival reflects deep-rooted cultural traditions and communal harmony among its practitioners.
The RSS, established in 1925, has been a prominent socio-cultural organization in India. Throughout its hundred-year history, the RSS has engaged in various community service initiatives, emphasizing discipline, service, and nationalism. Its centenary celebrations were marked by various events across the nation, focusing on its contributions to Indian society.
Since its inception, the RSS has aimed to foster a sense of community and national pride, often organizing events to promote cultural awareness and social welfare. The centenary celebration served as a platform to reflect on its legacy and future aspirations.
What’s New
During the address, Prime Minister Modi stated, “The Chhath Mahaparva is not just a festival; it is a celebration of our cultural heritage and values. The government’s initiative to have it included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list is a step towards recognizing its importance on a global scale.” This announcement aligns with the government’s broader agenda to promote India’s rich cultural diversity and heritage.
Modi pointed out that Chhath Mahaparva not only signifies faith but also illustrates community bonding, environmental consciousness, and the importance of nature in daily life. He encouraged citizens to support this initiative by participating in the festival and sharing their experiences, thereby enhancing its visibility.
In addition to discussing Chhath Mahaparva, Modi praised the RSS for its century-long commitment to the nation. He remarked, “The RSS has worked tirelessly for the upliftment of society, promoting discipline and a sense of duty among the youth.” He emphasized the importance of grassroots entrepreneurship and community service, which he believes play pivotal roles in nation-building.
Why it Matters
The move to include Chhath Mahaparva in the UNESCO list is significant for several reasons:
1. Cultural Recognition: It would place the festival on the global map, promoting awareness and appreciation for Indian traditions.
2. Tourism Potential: Recognition by UNESCO can boost tourism in regions where the festival is predominantly celebrated, contributing to local economies.
3. Cultural Preservation: The initiative can encourage efforts to preserve and promote cultural practices that are at risk of fading away.
Furthermore, Modi’s acknowledgment of the RSS’s contributions highlights the organization’s influence on Indian society and politics, particularly in shaping cultural narratives and fostering a sense of nationalism.
What to Watch Next
As the government moves forward with its initiative to list Chhath Mahaparva with UNESCO, several key developments are anticipated:
FAQ
Q1: What is Chhath Mahaparva?
A1: Chhath Mahaparva is a four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, celebrated primarily in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, involving rituals of fasting and prayers.
Q2: Why does PM Modi want to include Chhath Mahaparva in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list?
A2: Modi aims to recognize the festival’s cultural significance and promote its global appeal, enhancing awareness and appreciation for Indian traditions.
Q3: What is the RSS, and why is it significant?
A3: The RSS is a socio-cultural organization established in 1925, known for its role in promoting discipline, nationalism, and community service in India.
Q4: How could UNESCO recognition impact tourism?
A4: UNESCO recognition could lead to increased visibility for the festival, potentially attracting tourists and boosting local economies in regions where it is celebrated.
Q5: What are some challenges in the UNESCO application process?
A5: The application process can be lengthy and may involve addressing objections or concerns raised by stakeholders, in addition to thorough documentation of cultural practices.
Takeaways
Prime Minister Modi’s announcement during Mann Ki Baat reflects a strategic move towards elevating India’s cultural heritage on a global platform. The initiative to recognize Chhath Mahaparva underscores the importance of community traditions in shaping national identity, while the acknowledgment of the RSS emphasizes its role in fostering social values and discipline. The upcoming months will likely see increased public engagement in the festival as the government seeks to garner support for its UNESCO application.
Sources & Credits: Reporting synthesized from multiple reputable outlets and official releases.
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For context and confirmations, see reputable wires like Reuters or AP News.
Source: Original Source. Reporting synthesized from multiple reputable outlets and official releases.
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