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Deepavali Shines on UNESCO Intangible Heritage List
11 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Deepavali, India's festival of lights, has been inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
- This marks the 16th Indian tradition to receive this esteemed global recognition.
- The inscription celebrates Deepavali's role in strengthening social bonds and promoting cultural values.
India's beloved festival of lights, Deepavali, has been inscribed on UNESCO's representative list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This momentous occasion, announced at the committee session hosted by India, marks the 16th element from the nation to receive this prestigious global recognition.
The inscription celebrates Deepavali as a living heritage that strengthens social bonds, supports traditional craftsmanship, and reinforces values of generosity. The festival, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness, is observed annually by diverse communities across India, marking the last harvest and the beginning of a new year.
Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat noted that Deepavali embodies the universal message of moving from darkness to light, symbolizing hope and harmony. The global reach of the festival was also highlighted, acknowledging the role of the Indian diaspora in spreading its message across continents.
