Deepavali, one of India’s most celebrated festivals, has received a major global honor. UNESCO has added Deepavali to its Intangible Cultural Heritage List, recognizing it as a cultural treasure that deserves preservation and celebration worldwide.
The announcement came from UNESCO on social media, introducing it as a new addition to the list of ‘Living Heritage.’
PM Modi glad with UNESCO decision
Shortly after, PM Modi expressed his happiness, stating that people in India and around the world are thrilled by the decision. In his tweet, he described Deepavali as a festival deeply linked to India’s culture, values, and civilization. He said the festival represents illumination and righteousness and called the UNESCO recognition a proud moment for the country.
This is one of the most significant global acknowledgments of India’s cultural traditions in recent years.
Marks cultural importance of Diwali
The UNESCO listing highlights the cultural importance of Deepavali. It ensures that the festival, celebrated for generations, is preserved and promoted on an international level.
The Intangible Cultural Heritage List is a UNESCO platform that recognizes living traditions, such as festivals, rituals, music, dance, crafts, and cultural practices passed down through generations.
Unlike monuments or historical sites, this list focuses on traditions that communities actively celebrate and maintain. By adding Diwali to this list, UNESCO aims to protect the festival’s cultural value and foster global awareness. It ensure that the tradition continues to thrive for future generations.
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