Deepavali Inscribed On UNESCO’s List Of Intangible Cultural Heritage

New Delhi: Deepavali (also known as Diwali) has been officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The decision was announced during a session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) hosted in India.

This new inscription recognises Deepavali alongside cultural traditions from countries including Ghana, Georgia, Ethiopia and Egypt. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the move.

“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,” the PM wrote on X.

Reacting to the inclusion, India’s Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said the festival “is deeply emotional for Indians and has lived through generations.” He added: “This UNESCO tag also a responsibility; we must ensure Deepavali remains living heritage,” as quoted by PTI.

The 20th session of the ICH — held from December 8 to December 13 at the historic Red Fort in Delhi — reviewed a total of 67 nominations from nearly 80 countries. Deepavali’s inclusion adds to India’s growing list of intangible cultural heritage elements.

Also on the Heritage List: