New Delhi: Deepavali, the festival of lights, has been officially added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The announcement was made during the twentieth session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee, which is currently taking place at the Red Fort in New Delhi.
The recognition highlights Deepavali’s cultural and social importance across communities in India and around the world. UNESCO described the festival as a living tradition that strengthens social bonds, supports artisans and craftsmen, and carries universal values of hope, unity and the triumph of light over darkness.
Government leaders welcomed the decision, calling it a proud moment for India. They noted that the festival’s inclusion on the global heritage list will help preserve its traditional practices and promote a deeper understanding of Indian culture. Officials also said the recognition brings new responsibility to safeguard the festival’s diverse rituals, arts and community celebrations.
With this inscription, Deepavali becomes the sixteenth element from India to join UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list. Other Indian traditions already on the list include Yoga, Durga Puja, Garba, Kumbh Mela and Vedic chanting.
Cultural experts say the recognition will encourage global appreciation of Deepavali and support efforts to protect the festival from being overtaken by commercialization. They also expect it to boost cultural tourism and strengthen awareness of traditional crafts and practices associated with the celebration.
The UNESCO session in New Delhi is reviewing nominations from several countries this year, making Deepavali’s inclusion part of a wider celebration of global cultural diversity.