Making Heritage Accessible to All: Reimagining Durga Puja Through Inclusion

On 18 September 2025, the UN in India and UNESCO, in collaboration with the Government of West Bengal, represented by Firhad Hakim, the Mayor of Kolkata, launched an initiative aimed at creating accessible cultural spaces. This initiative introduced Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for pandal organizers, focusing on infrastructure, communication, emergency preparedness, and volunteer training during the Durga Puja celebrations in West Bengal.

The initiative seeks to enhance inclusivity during one of the region's most significant cultural events, ensuring that all participants can enjoy the festivities in a safe and accessible environment. The SOPs are expected to guide organizers in implementing best practices for crowd management and emergency response.

This partnership highlights a continued commitment by local authorities and international organizations to foster cultural accessibility and promote heritage awareness, aligning with broader goals of inclusion and community engagement.