World Heritage Day, Or International Day for monuments and sites is seen worldwide on 18 April so that people can know about the importance of cultural and natural heritage everywhere. The day asks for safety and protection of important heritage sites for future generations. It is marked by several activities, including monuments and heritage sites, conferences, round table meetings, and directed trips to educational events.
All passengers know that stories mean a place that makes it special. World Heritage Day is also known as International Day for monuments and sites, and is celebrated as a day to celebrate natural miracles and cultural sites around the world that humanity has learned from the whole history.
World Heritage Day 2025 Theme
Each year, the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) selects a theme for World Heritage Day, which spots a major issue relevant to heritage protection. The theme for 2025 “Disaster and conflict flexible heritage”.
History of World Heritage Day
World Heritage Day discovered its origin in 1982 when the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) proposed the idea of dedicating one day to celebrate and promote heritage awareness. The proposal was officially approved by the UNESCO General Assembly during its 22nd General Conference next year.
The event saw the participation of around 10,000 members representing more than 150 countries, including specialists such as archeology, geography, art, architecture and civil engineering.
World Heritage Day Importance
The purpose behind the International Day for monuments and sites, also known as World Heritage Day, has always been to protect breathtaking places and important monuments for future generations.
For example, in 2023, under the theme of “Heritage Changes” of World Heritage Day, two new Indian sites, Hoysalas and Santinicate, were added to the list. On this day, every year, experts from different fields come together to discuss and exchange knowledge about each other’s history and customs.
Bhagavad Gita, Natashastra added to the memory of UNESCO World Register
Srimad Bhagavad Gita and Bharat Muni’s Natayastra have also entered the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) memory of the World Register.
In addition to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Shrimad Bhagavad Gita and Natashastra on the social media platform X, it said that it is a ‘proud moment’ for every Indian worldwide.
He said, “A proud moment for every Indian around the world! The inclusion of Gita and Natashastra in the memory of the world register is a global recognition of our timeless knowledge and rich culture.”
A proud moment for every Indian around the world!
The inclusion of Gita and Natashastra in the memory of UNESCO’s World Register is a global recognition of our timeless knowledge and rich culture.
Gita and Natashastra have nurtured civilization, and consciousness … https://t.co/zputb5heut– Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 18, 2025
Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat called it a ‘historic moment’ for the civilized heritage of India.
World Heritage Day Quotes
1. “Sometimes it is impossible to know where you came from, without reflecting where you have come from. Understanding your heritage, your roots and your dynasty is an important part of taking out your future.” – Dr. TS Raviskara, former Director of Archaeological Survey of India (Epigraphy).
2. “Our beauty heritage defines our national identity and cultural prosperity.” – Carlos Fuantes, a Mexican writer and essayist.
3. “If we don’t care about our past, we cannot expect the future .. I care hard to save old buildings. – Jacqueline Kennedy Onasis, writer and former first woman in the United States.
4. “Happiness is a very proud word of our entire cultural heritage.” – Erich from, a social psychological and psychoanalytic.
5. “A concrete effort to preserve our heritage is an important link for our cultural, educational, beauty, inspiring and economic heritage – all things that make us quite literally that we are.” – Steve Berry, an American writer.
Top 5 should visit heritage sites in India
1. Taj Mahal: A ivory-white marble tomb, the Taj Mahal is situated on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in Agra. It was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor, Shahjan in 1632. Construction is believed to be between 1631 and 1648, by 1653 some finishing tanges were added. It is one of the most prestigious symbols of India’s rich Mughal heritage.
2. Hampi: Nevertheless, another heritage site in India is Hampi, from 1336 to 1565, the last capital of the Vijayanagara Empire is Hampi. However, since the Deccan Muslim Confederi took control of the city in 1565, it was released. From time to time, the Garhwale city has continued its importance as a culturally rich religious center, with an incredible Virupaksha Temple, a Adi Shankara Math, and various other monuments related to the same place.
3. Ajanta Caves: This historical site refers to one of the largest Buddhist rock-cut architecture, which is a rare example of art, architecture, painting, socio-cultural, religious and political history of contemporary India. Over the years, Ajanta caves have also impressed many artists.
4. Jaipur City: Also known as “The Pink City”, the picturesque place has specific urban designs in its markets, forts, temples, palaces and more, inspired by Vedic architecture. Additionally, in 1876, Maharaja Ram Singh created a significant addition to the beauty of the city by painting most of the buildings to warmly welcome British Queen Victoria.
5. Khajuraho: It is a group of Hindu and Jain temples in Chhatpur district of Madhya Pradesh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is famous for their Nagra style architectural symbolism and erotic idols. It was built between 950 and 1050 during the rule of the Chandela dynasty, and is still alive.
