New Delhi, Dec 10 – The festival of Deepavali, also spelled Diwali, a cornerstone of India’s cultural and spiritual life, made its debut on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list this Wednesday. On its X account, UNESCO posted: “BREAKING. New inscription on the #IntangibleHeritage List: Deepavali, #India. Congratulations!” In the week‑long deliberations of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, 67 nominations from almost 80 countries were reviewed, with Deepavali being one of the chosen entries. The 20th session of the Committee convened at Delhi’s historic Red Fort from December 8 to 13, marking the first time the country has hosted this international gathering. The fortress served as the main venue where high‑ranking officials and global delegates enjoyed cultural displays, the traditional lighting of diyas, and exhibitions that highlighted the arts tied to the holiday. To infuse the capital with the festival’s glow, the Delhi administration was directed to illuminate prominent buildings, set up decorative lighting, scatter diyas throughout public spaces, and stage cultural programs across districts, aiming to make the city shine with Diwali brilliance. In addition, Chhath Puja—a celebration honoring the Sun God—was put forward for UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The Ministry of Culture has asked the Sangeet Natak Akademi to assess a related proposal and act accordingly. India already boasts 15 entries on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, including the Kumbh Mela, Kolkata’s Durga Puja, Gujarat’s Garba, Yoga, Vedic chanting, Ramlila, Ramman, and Kutiyattam. Adding Deepavali to the roster further elevates the nation’s cultural standing worldwide. UNESCO created the Intangible Cultural Heritage list to safeguard vital cultural practices and raise global awareness of their significance, encompassing living expressions, skills, knowledge, performances, and the artifacts, instruments, and spaces that communities regard as part of their heritage.
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