Deepavali Garners Global Honour: Added to UNESCO Heritage List

Deepavali, one of India’s most widely celebrated festivals of lights, has been granted a major global honour by being officially inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. The announcement was made by UNESCO, recognizing the festival as a “Living Heritage” that deserves worldwide preservation and celebration. This decision was taken during the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee, which India hosted at the Red Fort in New Delhi.

The inscription is a significant international acknowledgement of India’s cultural traditions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his delight, stating that people in India and across the globe were “thrilled.” He described Deepavali as a festival “very closely linked to our culture and ethos,” personifying the timeless message of illumination and righteousness . Home Minister Amit Shah and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also hailed the decision as a “proud moment” that recognizes the festival’s immense cultural, religious, and spiritual significance.

The Intangible Cultural Heritage List is UNESCO’s platform for recognizing living traditions, unlike monuments or historical sites. It specifically focuses on cultural expressions, social practices, rituals, and festive events—such as music, dance, crafts, and festivals—that are passed down through generations and actively celebrated by communities. Deepavali’s inclusion highlights its role in strengthening social bonds, supporting traditional craftsmanship like diya making, and promoting overall community well-being.

By adding Deepavali, UNESCO aims to protect its cultural value, boost global awareness, and ensure that the tradition continues to flourish for future generations. The recognition also helps promote the universal message of the victory of light over darkness and good over evil that Deepavali symbolizes. This new addition makes Deepavali the 16th element from India on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, joining others like the Kumbh Mela, Durga Puja in Kolkata, and Yoga.

The festival was inscribed under the “Social practices, rituals and festive events” domain, affirming that its strength lies in its diverse regional customs and community-led transmission. Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat noted that the UNESCO tag is a responsibility to ensure Deepavali remains a vibrant, living heritage for children and future generations.