Santiniketan finds its place on UNESCO’s World Heritage List

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Last Updated19/09/2023

Santiniketan, a town located in West Bengal’s Birbhum district, set up by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore recently made it to the UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

It is a renowned cultural and educational institution located in the Birbhum District of West Bengal, India.
Santiniketan literally means “abode of peace” in Bengali.
It was the home of Rabindranath Tagore, where he lived and composed many of his literary works, including songs, poems, and novels.
Initially, it started as an ashram (hermitage) founded by Rabindra Nath Tagore’s father, Debendranath Tagore.
But, eventually it developed into a centre of art, culture, and learning.

It is known for its unique educational philosophy, which emphasizes the integration of nature, creativity, and holistic learning.
It follows the concept of an open-air classroom where students are encouraged to learn in close connection with nature.
Santiniketan is also adorned with splendid sculptures, frescoes, murals, and paintings created by renowned artists such as Rabindranath Tagore, Nandalal Bose and Ramkinkar Baij among others.

Landmarks or areas selected by UNESCO for their cultural, historical, scientific or other significant value, legally protected by international treaties.
They represent collective and preservative interests of humanity, signifying remarkable accomplishments and intellectual history.
World Heritage Sites require practical conservation to protect them from risks like trespassing, uncontrolled access, or administrative negligence.
Selection Criteria: The sites must be
- already-classified landmarks
- unique and significant culturally or physically, such as ancient ruins, historical structures, cities, monuments, etc.
World Heritage Committee
- selects and monitors World Heritage Sites
- manages the World Heritage Fund
- provides financial assistance
- India is not a member of the World Heritage Committee