Staff Reporter :
RAIPUR :
Chhattisgarh has achieved a significant milestone in its efforts to secure international recognition for its rich historical, cultural and archaeological heritage. Sirpur, the ancient town situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River in Mahasamund district, has been included in UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List under the name Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape.
The inclusion marks an important step towards bringing Chhattisgarh’s rich cultural heritage to the global stage. Renowned for its ancient temples, Buddhist monasteries, rare sculptures, architectural splendour and tradition of religious
tolerance, Sirpur is now moving forward on the path towards possible
World Heritage status. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, the State Government has been making sustained efforts to conserve and promote Chhattisgarh’s historical and cultural heritage and establish it on national and international tourism maps. Under the guidance of Tourism and Culture Minister Shri Rajesh Agrawal, special emphasis is being placed on securing global recognition for important archaeological sites and expanding opportunities for cultural tourism. Sirpur’s inclusion in UNESCO’s Tentative List is being viewed as a significant achievement in this direction. It is expected to enhance international awareness of Sirpur’s historical importance and strengthen prospects for future tourism development.