India, March 9 -- The authorities of Jagannath temple at Odisha's Puri town have started the process to secure UNESCO recognition for the annual Ratha Jatra.

The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has initiated the process to inscribe annual Ratha Jatra in the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

The annual Ratha Jatra of Lord Jagannath, an integral part of the 12th century shrine, showcases the rich cultural heritage of Odisha as well as India. The UNESCO recognition would not only acknowledge the festival's cultural significance but also promote its global recognition, said the SJTA.

"We are proud to initiate the process to secure UNESCO recognition to Lord Jagannath's Ratha Jatra. The process will h...