10 December,2025 02:27 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
UNESCO formally inscribed Deepavali on its list of intangible cultural heritage on Wednesday. Representational pic
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on Wednesday hailed the inscription of the festival of Deepavali to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Intangible Heritage List, saying the recognition reflects the festival's deep connection with India's culture and civilisational ethos and will further enhance its global appeal.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, "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."
Earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also welcomed UNESCO's decision. In his post on X, he said the inscription recognises Deepavali's immense cultural, religious and spiritual significance, as well as its role in fostering unity and togetherness.
UNESCO formally inscribed Deepavali on its list of intangible cultural heritage on Wednesday, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal announced in a social media post
Describing the festival on its official website, UNESCO noted, "Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is a light festival celebrated annually by diverse individuals and communities across India, that marks the last harvest of the year and the start of a new year and new season. Based on the lunar calendar, it falls on the new moon in October or November and lasts several days. It is a joyous occasion that symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. During this time, people clean and decorate their homes and public spaces, light lamps and candles, set off fireworks, and offer prayers for prosperity and new beginnings."
Deepavali joins a growing list of Indian cultural elements recognised by UNESCO. Ramlila was added to the list in 2008, followed by Navroz from India in 2024. Other Indian entries include Garba from Gujarat (2023), Durga Puja in Kolkata (2021), Kumbh Mela (2017), Yoga (2016), and the traditional brass and copper craft of the Thatheras of Jandiala Guru in Punjab (2014).
UNESCO defines intangible cultural heritage as the practices, knowledge, expressions, objects and spaces that communities recognise as part of their cultural identity. These traditions, passed down through generations, continue to evolve while strengthening cultural identity and promoting respect for diversity.
The 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, adopted by UNESCO during its 32nd General Conference in Paris, sought to address concerns that living cultural traditions, oral practices, performing arts, rituals, and craftsmanship were increasingly under threat from globalisation, social change and limited resources.
(With ANI inputs)
