The Rajya Sabha today hailed the inscription of Deepawali in the UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radha Krishnan said it is a moment of immense national pride for the country. He said it is not a mere festival, it symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. He hoped that this achievement would inspire people to preserve and promote, and proudly celebrate the country’s rich heritage and traditions with renewed commitment.
Deepavali, the festival of lights, has been inscribed on UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, announced at the 20th UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee session at New Delhi’s Red Fort from December 8-13, 2025. It is the 16th Indian element on this list.
The inscription was adopted in the presence of delegates from 194 Member States, international experts, and representatives of UNESCO’s global network. The Festival of Lights is an annual living tradition celebrated in India.
PM Narendra Modi welcomed UNESCO’s recognition of Diwali, stating that Deepavali is deeply linked to India’s culture and ethos, and represents the very soul of our civilisation.
