Deepavali Earns Place On UNESCO’s Global Intangible Heritage List

Updated: December 11, 2025 03:43

Image Source : Mathrubhumi English

UNESCO has officially inscribed Deepavali, India’s festival of lights, on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The announcement, made during the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee at Delhi’s Red Fort, marks a historic recognition of Bharat’s cultural traditions and global spiritual significance.

India celebrated a proud cultural milestone as UNESCO announced the inclusion of Deepavali in its Global Intangible Heritage List. The decision was made during the ongoing 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, hosted at Delhi’s iconic Red Fort. The recognition places Deepavali alongside other global cultural practices recently honoured, affirming its universal appeal and timeless relevance.

Key highlights from the announcement include

UNESCO confirmed the inscription of Deepavali on its official channels, congratulating India for the achievement.
The festival was selected from among 67 nominations submitted by nearly 80 countries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the recognition, calling Deepavali “the soul of our civilisation” and a celebration of India’s cultural ethos.
Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat emphasized that the festival embodies renewal, peace, and the triumph of good over evil.
The inscription acknowledges the contributions of millions of artisans, potters, and communities who keep Deepavali traditions alive.
Delegates from over 180 countries attended the six-day UNESCO session, underscoring the global importance of the decision.
The recognition also places responsibility on India to safeguard and promote Deepavali as a living heritage for future generations.

Deepavali, celebrated across Bharat and among Indian communities worldwide, symbolizes light triumphing over darkness and good prevailing over evil. Its rituals, from lighting diyas to sharing sweets, transcend religious boundaries and unite people in joy and renewal. The UNESCO recognition not only honours India’s cultural richness but also elevates Deepavali as a global heritage of humanity.

This milestone reinforces India’s role as a custodian of diverse traditions and highlights the importance of preserving intangible cultural practices. With Deepavali now inscribed on UNESCO’s list, the festival stands as a beacon of cultural pride and spiritual unity for Bharat and the world.

Sources: Moneycontrol, Telangana Today, Telegraph India, India Today, Hindustan Times, Indian Express

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