Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday assured the House that the government will pursue efforts to secure a UNESCO World Heritage tag for Tiatr.
His assurance came during a discussion on a private member’s resolution moved by Curtorim MLA Alexio Lorenco, who underscored the need to formally recognise Tiatr—Goa’s vibrant and unique theatre tradition—as a significant form of Indian cultural expression worthy of global acknowledgment.
The House recommended that the State government, in coordination with the Ministry of Culture, prepare and submit a nomination dossier for Tiatr’s inclusion in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity under the 2003 Convention.
Taleigao MLA Jennifer Monserrate described Tiatr as an art form found only in Goa, calling it unmatched in its ability to promote the official language, preserve folklore, and convey ideas through scripts and music. She highlighted its mass appeal and its power to address social, educational, and cultural issues, often weaving humour into drama.
She also noted Tiatr’s contribution to generating both direct and indirect employment, empowering communities, and fostering women’s participation. The tradition, she said, has long championed gender equality, with equal representation of male and female performers.
Siolim, MLA Delilah Lobo praised Tiatr artists for their role in showcasing Goa’s art, culture, and heritage, while MLA Vijai Sardesai lauded Tiatrists as torch-bearers of Goan identity and voices of conscience who speak against injustice.
Supporting the resolution, Quepem MLA Altone D’Costa stressed Tiatr’s importance in raising public awareness and, at times, holding the government to account. MLA Viresh Borkar added that Tiatr serves as a cultural bridge for the Goan diaspora, fostering education and unity within the community.