India Celebrates Inclusion of Deepawali in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List

New Delhi – India on Wednesday hailed UNESCO’s decision to inscribe Deepawali on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, calling it a significant and joyous moment for the nation.

Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), announced the development on X, stating: “A joyous moment as Deepavali, the festival of lights marking the triumph of good over evil and the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom Ayodhya, which is celebrated globally, is added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.”

UNESCO confirmed the inclusion earlier in the day through its official X handle, saying: “BREAKING. New inscription on the #IntangibleHeritage List: Deepavali, #India. Congratulations!”

This milestone comes as the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage holds its 20th session at Delhi’s historic Red Fort from December 8 to 13. This is the first time India is hosting a session of the UNESCO panel.

Deepawali Among Global Nominations

A total of 67 nominations from nearly 80 countries were evaluated during the week-long session. India’s Deepawali festival was among those considered for inscription.

As the main venue, the Red Fort is hosting cultural performances, lighting ceremonies, and curated exhibitions showcasing traditional arts linked to the festival of lights.

Delhi Embellished in Diwali Splendour

To reflect the celebratory spirit, the Delhi government has been directed to illuminate major buildings, install decorative lighting, and place diyas across public spaces. Cultural programmes are also being organised across districts to create an atmosphere of full Diwali splendour in the capital.

Chhath Puja Also Under Consideration

Chhath Puja, dedicated to the Sun God, has also been proposed for inclusion in the UNESCO list. The Union Ministry of Culture has asked the Sangeet Natak Akademi to examine the proposal and proceed accordingly.

India’s Growing Cultural Footprint

With Deepawali’s inclusion, India now has 16 elements on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Existing entries include:

• Kumbh Mela

• Kolkata’s Durga Puja

• Gujarat’s Garba

• Yoga

• Vedic chanting

• Ramlila

• Ramman

• Kutiyattam

This recognition further strengthens India’s cultural standing on the global platform.

UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List aims to preserve and promote living traditions, including practices, expressions, skills, and cultural spaces that communities recognise as part of their heritage.

With inputs from IANS