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The federal government has officially approved the nomination dossier for Orchha’s historic collection of sites for submission to the UNESCO World Heritage List, marking a significant milestone for India’s cultural legacy. This action is the result of a five-year process spearheaded by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board with the goal of securing Orchha’s position as one of the most cherished cultural places in the world.
The Indian Ambassador to UNESCO, Shri Vishal V. Sharma, formally delivered the dossier to the UNESCO World Heritage Center Director, Shri Lazare Floundou Assomo. It has been suggested that Orchha be included for the 2027–2028 cycle, making it India’s first officially recognized state-protected World Heritage Site.
The Five-Year Path to UNESCO Accreditation
Orchha and Bhedaghat were nominated for UNESCO’s Tentative List by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board in 2019 and 2021, respectively. In collaboration with specialized organizations, the Tourism Board produced comprehensive dossiers on Mandu, Bhedaghat, and Orchha. Before sending these dossiers to UNESCO, the Archaeological Survey of India carried out a comprehensive assessment.
Today, Madhya Pradesh is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the rock shelters of Bhimbetka, the stupas of Sanchi, and the Khajuraho monuments. Orchha’s nomination puts the state’s diverse cultural environment in a position to become even more well-known around the world. Gwalior Fort, the Chambal Valley rock art sites, and Bhedaghat-Lametaghat are some further possible state locations on UNESCO’s Tentative List.
Bundela Architecture’s Legacy
The Bundela architecture of Orchha, which includes a variety of opulent palaces, temples, and forts, is well known. India’s rich cultural legacy is exemplified by landmarks like the Orchha Fort Complex, Raja Ram Temple, Chaturbhuj Temple, and the Jahangir Mahal. Orchha, which is revered for both its spiritual importance and natural beauty, lies tucked away along the banks of the Betwa River.
UNESCO Status’s Worldwide Recognition and Advantages
Orchha would get UNESCO World Heritage designation in a number of ways:
1. Recognized on a global scale as a location of great historical and cultural importance.
2. An increase in tourism that draws tourists from both domestic and foreign countries, resulting.
3. Assistance from global groups for the site’s development and maintenance.
4. Increased awareness of regional handicrafts and cultural goods.
5. Encouragement of eco-friendly and sustainable travel methods.
Indian Ambassador Vishal V. Sharma thanked the Archaeological Survey of India, the Ministry of Culture, and the Madhya Pradesh government for their outstanding cooperation in facilitating the submission of the nomination dossier. He underlined the hope that Orchha’s great cultural and architectural heritage would soon be given the international attention it so richly merits.
The globe anticipates seeing Orchha added to the esteemed UNESCO globe Heritage List as it awaits its possible classification in 2027–2028.
