KATHMANDU, April 30: Music aficionados around the world are celebrating International Jazz Day today, honoring the cultural and historical significance of jazz music. Jazz, known for its harmonious fusion of diverse musical instruments, gained popularity in the early 20th century and continues to attract young audiences, especially in Western countries.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared April 30 as International Jazz Day during its General Conference in November 2011. Since then, countries across the globe have marked the day each year.
Weeklong Jazz celebration hits Kathmandu

This celebration promotes intercultural dialogue, human rights and dignity, the elimination of discrimination, freedom of expression, gender equality, and highlights the active role of youth in driving social transformation.
UNESCO encourages communities, schools, artists, historians, educators, and jazz enthusiasts to explore jazz's roots, evolution, and global influence. It also sees the occasion as a way to strengthen international peace and cultural understanding.
UNESCO states that jazz fosters unity, mutual respect, and tolerance. It empowers marginalized youth and inspires the creative revival of traditional music in innovative forms.