UNESCO’s Nodal Agency Recognizes Narmada Parikrama As Intangible Cultural Heritage Of India
Ahmedabad: In a proud moment for the states of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, the revered pilgrimage of Narmada Parikrama has been officially included in the National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of India. This recognition was granted by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, the nodal agency responsible for implementing UNESCO’s ICH program in India.
The recognition comes after the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board submitted a formal application in 2024 to include the pilgrimage, along with Bhagoria Tribal Dance and Gond Tribal Painting, as elements of India’s living cultural traditions.
Narmada Parikrama is a renowned spiritual practice involving the circumambulation of the Narmada River, one of India’s holiest rivers. The pilgrimage spans approximately 3,500 kilometers, beginning at the river’s origin in Amarkantak and ending at the same point after covering both banks.
Pilgrims undertake this journey barefoot as they pass through ancient temples, ghats, forests, and villages. The journey, which can take six to eight months, is deeply rooted in spiritual discipline, faith, and the age-old connection between people and nature. It is considered one of the most rigorous and revered pilgrimages in Hindu tradition.
Principal Secretary of Madhya Pradesh’s Tourism and Culture Department, Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, welcomed the inclusion, noting that it reflects the state government’s ongoing efforts to bring its cultural and spiritual heritage to international prominence. This recognition is expected to significantly boost cultural tourism and generate interest from international travelers seeking spiritual and authentic Indian experiences.
Intangible Cultural Heritage includes practices, representations, expressions, and knowledge systems passed down through generations. Unlike physical monuments or sites, these are living traditions that help sustain the cultural identity of communities.
The inclusion of Narmada Parikrama in the national list not only ensures greater preservation and visibility of this unique spiritual journey but also lays the groundwork for its future nomination to UNESCO’s international ICH list, potentially enhancing India’s cultural presence globally.