Joyous Moment as Santiniketan Enters UNESCO World Heritage List - Mamata Banerjee Shares Her Happiness

West Bengal Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee expressed her joy on social media over the inclusion of Santiniketan in the UNESCO's World Heritage list. She credited this achievement to the tireless efforts by former Vice Chancellors since 2005 and support from people of Bengal.

In a recent announcement that has caused waves of joy and pride across the country, Santiniketan, the town closely associated with Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, has been added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The news was received with particular enthusiasm by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee who is currently in Spain.

Mamata Banerjee's Reaction

Banerjee expressed her delight on social media platform X saying, "Glad and proud that our Santiniketan, the town of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, is now finally included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List." She further emphasized how Santiniketan had been nurtured by the poet himself and continued to be supported by people of Bengal over generations.

Government's Contribution

The chief minister also highlighted the role played by her government in this achievement. She said,"We from the Government of West Bengal have significantly added to its infrastructure in the last 12 years and the world now recognises the glory of this heritage place." In an expression of gratitude towards all those who love Bengal and appreciate Tagore's messages of fraternity, she ended her statement with a spirited "Jai Bangla" and paid homage to Gurudev.

Acknowledging Past Efforts

This accomplishment did not come easily or overnight. It was made possible due to relentless efforts put forth by various individuals over time. Former Visva Bharati officiating vice-chancellor Sabujkali Basu acknowledged this fact when she said,"This is a proud moment for everyone and it was the result of sincere efforts by former VCs since 2005."

She went on to mention names like Rajatkanta Roy and Sushanta Kumar Duttagupta among others who had tirelessly worked towards achieving this honour. The sense of satisfaction and pride in her voice was palpable when she said, "We are obviously happy."

Significance of the Honour

It is important to note that this honour has not been bestowed upon any university located in the area but to Santiniketan itself. This underlines the cultural and historical significance of the town as a whole, beyond just its educational institutions.

In conclusion, Santiniketan's inclusion into UNESCO’s World Heritage List marks a significant milestone for India. It serves as recognition of our rich cultural heritage and pays tribute to one of our greatest poets, Rabindranath Tagore. This achievement is also testimony to the persistent efforts made by various individuals over time who believed in the value and potential of this place. As we celebrate this momentous occasion, let us also remember Gurudev's messages of fraternity and strive towards creating a world that embodies these ideals.