India Showcases UNESCO Heritage Through Permanent Exhibition in Azerbaijan

India has strengthened its cultural outreach in Azerbaijan with the inauguration of a permanent exhibition showcasing its UNESCO World Heritage Sites at the Embassy of India in Baku. The initiative aims to promote India’s rich civilisational heritage while fostering stronger cultural and people-to-people ties between the two countries.

The exhibition was inaugurated by India’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Abhay Kumar, along with Anna Soave, Head of Country Programme at UN-Habitat Azerbaijan. The event was attended by diplomats, members of Azerbaijan’s Parliament, business representatives, travel industry stakeholders, media professionals, social media influencers and members of the Indian diaspora.

Featuring 17 display panels, the exhibition highlights some of India’s most celebrated cultural and natural landmarks recognised by UNESCO. The exhibits include globally renowned sites such as the Taj Mahal, Nalanda Mahavihara, the Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi, Hampi, and the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, reflecting India’s diverse architectural, historical and cultural legacy.

Speaking at the inauguration, Ambassador Kumar said India’s heritage represents not only the country’s ancient civilisation but also humanity’s shared cultural inheritance. He noted that India is home to 44 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, comprising 36 cultural, seven natural, and one mixed site, each showcasing different facets of the country’s history, traditions and biodiversity.

He expressed confidence that the permanent exhibition would encourage visitors to learn more about India’s heritage and further deepen cultural exchanges between India and Azerbaijan.

Anna Soave praised the initiative, describing it as an important platform for promoting intercultural dialogue and appreciation of global heritage. She commended India’s continued efforts to preserve its historical and natural treasures for future generations.

The inauguration was accompanied by a series of cultural activities celebrating India’s traditions. A Heritage-cum-Fashion Walk featured Azerbaijani participants dressed in traditional Indian attire representing different regions of the country, while an Indian Street Food Festival introduced guests to popular delicacies, including samosas, chaat and Indian tea.

The celebrations also featured cultural performances by Azerbaijani artists inspired by Indian music and dance traditions, adding to the festive atmosphere.

The permanent exhibition will remain open to visitors at the Embassy of India in Baku, offering an opportunity to explore India’s UNESCO-recognised heritage and gain deeper insights into its enduring civilisational legacy. The initiative is expected to further strengthen cultural diplomacy and tourism linkages between India and Azerbaijan.