Context: During the 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage, hosted at the Red Fort, New Delhi, UNESCO inscribed Deepavali (Diwali) on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity. With this, Deepavali becomes India’s 16th ICH element, joining earlier inscriptions such as Kumbh Mela (2017), Kolkata Durga Puja (2021), and Garba of Gujarat (2023).
About Deepavali
Deepavali is a 2,500-year-old festival rooted in ancient agrarian and seasonal traditions, later assimilated into diverse religious and regional practices across South Asia.
- Hindu traditions:
It commemorates events such as Rama’s return to Ayodhya, Goddess Lakshmi’s emergence, Krishna’s victory over Narakasura, and the return of the Pandavas, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness and dharma over adharma. - Other religious traditions:
- Jainism: Marks Mahavira’s Nirvana.
- Sikhism: Celebrated as Bandi Chhor Divas, recalling Guru Hargobind’s release from imprisonment.
- Buddhist and regional practices: Observed as Tihar and by Newar Buddhist communities in Nepal.
- Cultural practices:
Celebrated over five days (Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj), Deepavali involves lighting diyas, ritual worship, home decoration, exchange of gifts, community gatherings, and region-specific customs across India and Nepal. - Socio-economic dimension:
The festival generates significant economic activity in textiles, gold, handicrafts, traditional lamps, firecrackers, and e-commerce, and is increasingly celebrated globally with official recognition in several countries.
About the 20th UNESCO ICH Committee Session
India is hosting the 20th session from 8–13 December 2025 at the Red Fort, New Delhi.
- Agenda:
Review new nominations, assess safeguarding reports, examine existing ICH elements, approve international assistance, and share best practices for protecting living heritage. - Participation:
Over 800 delegates from 180+ countries, including committee members, UNESCO officials, experts, NGOs, and cultural practitioners.
Significance for India
The inscription of Deepavali strengthens India’s cultural diplomacy and soft power, highlights the country’s pluralistic traditions, and reinforces its leadership role in global heritage governance. Hosting the ICH session further positions India as a key voice in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage worldwide.