2023 - Bengal's Durga Puja | Mint Souvenir Token

The India Government Mint, Kolkata, released the souvenir token in 2023 to mark UNESCO’s recognition of Bengal’s Durga Puja as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Durga Puja in Kolkata and West Bengal is one of India’s most celebrated religious and cultural festivals, renowned for its artistic traditions, elaborate decorations, music, rituals and strong community participation. Its significance extends beyond religious worship, bringing together people from different sections of society in a shared celebration of art, culture and devotion.

In December 2021, UNESCO inscribed Durga Puja in Kolkata on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The recognition acknowledged the festival as a vibrant cultural tradition that brings together diverse communities and combines religious practices with artistic and creative expressions.

Durga Puja is traditionally dedicated to Goddess Durga, who is worshipped as the embodiment of divine power and the destroyer of evil. The festival commemorates her victory over the demon Mahishasura and symbolises the triumph of good over evil. Elaborately crafted images of Goddess Durga, accompanied by Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha and Kartikeya, form the centrepiece of the celebrations.

One of the distinctive features of Bengal’s Durga Puja is the creation of temporary pandals, which are often designed as remarkable works of architecture and art. Artisans and craftsmen spend months preparing clay idols, decorations and intricate installations. Traditional craftsmanship is combined with contemporary themes, making the festival an important platform for artistic expression.

The festival also encourages community participation through cultural programmes, music, dance, processions and shared meals. The making of idols and pandals provides livelihoods for numerous artisans and craftspeople, while the celebrations strengthen community relationships and preserve traditional knowledge and skills.

UNESCO’s recognition highlights the living and evolving nature of Durga Puja, where religious devotion, traditional craftsmanship, performing arts and community life come together. It also acknowledges the role of the festival in fostering inclusiveness and bringing people together.

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