Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday welcomed global delegates at the 20th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Intangible Cultural Heritage.
She asserted that the national capital stands as a 3,000-year-old “living civilisation” prepared to showcase its cultural depth to the world. The international gathering was held at the Red Fort in the presence of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, UNESCO Director-General Dr Khaled El-Anany, and India’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO Vishal V. Sharma.
Addressing delegates at the historic venue, the chief minister said Delhi was the most symbolic host for the global cultural forum, describing the city as a continuum of civilisations from the Indraprastha of the Mahabharata era to the modern democratic capital. She said that within a few square kilometres, Delhi offers a rare blend of historic markets, ancient forts, stepwells, classical arts, and diverse culinary traditions, making it an embodiment of India’s living heritage.
The Chief Minister said India’s intangible cultural traditions, ranging from the Vedas and Upanishads to yoga, seasonal rituals, folk performances, and festivals, have always survived through people rather than institutions. At a time when the world is navigating rapid modernisation, climate change, migration, and digital disruption, preserving intangible cultural heritage has become even more urgent, the chief minister said. She noted that recent national efforts have focused on elevating traditional knowledge systems and cultural practices on international platforms.
Inviting foreign representatives to experience more than the formal proceedings, the chief minister encouraged them to explore Delhi’s “soul” through its streets, architecture, craftsmanship, fragrances, and everyday cultural expressions. She urged them to visit historic sites such as the Red Fort, Purana Qila, museums, art galleries, and libraries that house India’s creative and intellectual legacy.
The Chief Minister highlighted key cultural landmarks, including the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, which chronicles the journey of India’s prime ministers and stands as a tribute to the country’s democratic evolution.
She also mentioned the Dr B.R. Ambedkar National Memorial, designed in the shape of the Constitution, which showcases India’s constitutional heritage. Monuments such as Akshardham Temple, the Lotus Temple, India Gate, and the National War Memorial were underscored as reflections of Delhi’s cultural richness.
The chief minister said she hoped delegates would carry back memories of Delhi’s hospitality, warmth, and plural cultural experiences. She extended gratitude on behalf of the people of Delhi to UNESCO and all participating nations for their presence and for supporting the global mission of safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.
