India’s Deepavali festival has been officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List, marking a historic milestone for the nation’s cultural heritage. PM Modi and other leaders celebrated the recognition, emphasizing the festival’s global significance and message of light over darkness.

Deepavali Inscribed on UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List; PM Modi Hails Global Recognition

India’s festival of lights, Deepavali, has officially been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The announcement came during the 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee, held at the Red Fort in New Delhi. This historic recognition marks a major milestone for India’s cultural heritage and further reinforces its global visibility.

Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, ministry officials, international experts, and delegates from 194 member states witnessed the adoption on Wednesday.

Deepavali: A Festival Celebrating Light Over Darkness

Shekhawat addressed the gathering, saying, “The recognition is a moment of pride for India and for communities worldwide that observe the festival.” He emphasized that Deepavali symbolizes the transition from darkness to light and highlighted the festival’s people-driven character.

The minister acknowledged the contributions of potters, artisans, farmers, sweet makers, priests, and households, whose participation keeps the festival’s traditions alive. He also noted the role of the Indian diaspora in spreading Deepavali celebrations across the globe.

UNESCO Inscription Highlights Cultural Significance

The Ministry of Culture explained that the inscription comes with a responsibility to safeguard and transmit this heritage. Deepavali, it stated, embodies unity, renewal, and social cohesion. The festival is marked by lighting diyas, creating rangoli, traditional crafts, rituals, and community gatherings.

The nomination, prepared by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, involved consultations with a wide spectrum of stakeholders, including practitioners, artisans, agrarian communities, diaspora groups, individuals with special needs, transgender communities, and cultural organizations.

UNESCO Recognition and Global Impact

UNESCO confirmed the listing in a post on X, highlighting that Deepavali strengthens social bonds, supports traditional craftsmanship, promotes wellbeing, and contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals, including livelihood support, gender equality, and cultural education.

PM Modi and Indian Leaders Welcome the Recognition

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the announcement, stating, “People in India and around the world are thrilled. For us, Deepavali is very closely linked to our culture and ethos. It is the soul of our civilisation. It personifies illumination and righteousness. The addition of Deepavali to the UNESCO Intangible Heritage List will contribute to the festival’s global popularity even further. May the ideals of Prabhu Shri Ram keep guiding us for eternity.”

Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan called it “a moment of pride for Indians” and emphasized Deepavali’s role in promoting unity and celebrating the triumph of light over darkness.

Home Minister Amit Shah also hailed the move, stating, “Proud moment for India as Deepavali enters into the UNESCO’s intangible heritage list. This signifies the importance of our ancient cultural ethos even in the modern era.”

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted that the listing acknowledges the festival’s cultural and spiritual significance and its power to bring people together.

A Historic Day for India’s Cultural Heritage

Shekhawat described the day as historic, noting India’s growing global recognition of its cultural heritage during the tenure of PM Narendra Modi. “A historic day for India. Deepavali has been officially inscribed on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity… This honour celebrates the universal message of our festival of lights: hope over despair, harmony over division, and light for all,” he said.

The Ministry added that the inscription will boost global awareness about India’s intangible heritage and encourage efforts to preserve community-based traditions for future generations.

Deepavali Among 67 Global Nominations

Deepavali was among 67 global nominations assessed during the week-long 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee at the Red Fort from December 8 to 13. This was the first time India hosted a session of the UNESCO panel.

With Deepavali’s inclusion, India now has 16 elements on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, including Kumbh Mela, Kolkata’s Durga Puja, Gujarat’s Garba, Yoga, Vedic chanting, Ramlila, Ramman, and Kutiyattam.

The addition further strengthens India’s cultural presence globally, showcasing its rich and diverse heritage to the world.

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