Deepavali, one of India’s foremost cultural and spiritual festivals, has been included in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s (UNESCO) Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity today.
Announcing this, Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said this is an emotional moment for every Indian. He said that Deepavali is not just celebrated but it is felt, lived and absorbed across the generations. Mr Shekhawat highlighted that this recognition is not merely an honour but a responsibility to ensure that Deepawali remains as a living heritage.
Highlighting the living and people-centric nature of the festival, the Minister emphasised that Deepavali thrives through the contributions of millions, including potters crafting traditional diyas, artisans preparing festive decor, farmers, sweet makers, priests, and households that uphold age-old customs.
He noted that this recognition is a tribute to the collective cultural labour that sustains the tradition. Mr Shekhawat also acknowledged the role of the Indian Diaspor,a whose celebrations across Southeast Asia, Africa, the Gulf, Europe, and the Caribbean have carried the message of Deepavali across continents and strengthened cultural bridges.
