Historic Moment: Deepavali Added to UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List
Photo by Lara Jameson via pexels
In a landmark decision that has sparked celebrations across the globe, India’s major festival, Deepavali (Diwali), has been officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The announcement was made today during the 20th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee, which is currently being hosted at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi.
This recognition marks a proud moment for India, validating the festival’s profound cultural significance. UNESCO announced the honour via a tweet: "New inscription on the Intangible Heritage List: Deepavali, India. Congratulations!"
PM Modi: "The Soul of Our Civilisation"
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his delight immediately following the announcement. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he described the recognition as a "thrilling" moment for Indians everywhere.
"People in India and around the world are thrilled," PM Modi tweeted. "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 further enhance the global popularity of this festival."
India's Welcome and New Responsibility
Union Minister for Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, hailed the inclusion as a significant step that honors Indian culture on the global stage. He emphasized that this recognition brings with it a solemn duty.
"This festival is emotionally very important for Indians and has been passed down through generations," Shekhawat stated. "With this recognition comes the responsibility to ensure that Deepavali remains a vibrant cultural heritage."
This inscription makes Deepavali the 16th Indian element to join the prestigious list, following other iconic traditions like Yoga, Kumbh Mela, and Durga Puja in Kolkata.
Deepavali: A Global Phenomenon
Deepavali, known as the 'Festival of Lights', symbolizes the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. While primarily celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, its message of unity has transcended religious boundaries.
The inclusion is a cause for pride not only for India but for the massive Indian diaspora worldwide. From the streets of Ayodhya to Times Square in New York, the festivity of Deepavali has become a global phenomenon, representing brotherhood and unity among diverse communities.
Global Heritage: Iceland, Haiti, and Egypt Honored
The 2025 list is a testament to the diversity of human culture. Alongside Deepavali, UNESCO honored several other unique traditions:
- Iceland: The communal Swimming Pool Culture, a vital part of Icelandic social life.
- Haiti: The rhythmic Compas music, central to Haitian identity.
- Egypt: The culinary tradition of Koshery, a beloved national dish.
These additions reflect UNESCO's commitment to preserving cultural practices that define humanity's shared heritage.
India Takes the Lead
The timing of this recognition is poetic, as India is currently chairing the UNESCO session for the first time. Vishal V. Sharma, India's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to UNESCO, is presiding over the session at the Red Fort. This leadership role has provided India with a unique platform to advocate for the preservation of living heritage in the Global South.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
The UNESCO tag for Deepavali is more than just a certificate; it is a global affirmation of India's soft power. As the diyas are lit next year, they will shine a little brighter, knowing that the world is watching and celebrating this timeless tradition with us.
Stay tuned to TheTrendingPeople.com for more updates from the ongoing UNESCO session in New Delhi.