Deepavali Added to UNESCO Intangible Heritage List, Marking a Cultural Landmark for India

New Delhi, December 10, 2025— Deepavali, one of India’s most celebrated festivals, has been officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, marking a significant cultural achievement for the country. The announcement was made by Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, who described it as a “joyous moment” in a post on X.

Jaiswal said Deepavali reflects India’s rich cultural identity and is celebrated worldwide as a symbol of the triumph of good over evil, commemorating the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya.

UNESCO, in its official description, said Deepavali is observed every year by diverse communities across India. The festival marks the last harvest of the year and welcomes a new season according to the lunar calendar. Celebrated across several days in October or November, it is known for its glowing lamps, vibrant decorations, fireworks and prayers for prosperity. UNESCO highlighted its universal message of light overcoming darkness.

With this recognition, Deepavali joins an expanding list of Indian traditions honoured by UNESCO. These include Ramlila (2008), Navroz (2024), Garba of Gujarat (2023), Durga Puja of Kolkata (2021), Kumbh Mela (2017), Yoga (2016) and the traditional brass and copper utensil-making craft of the Thatheras of Jandiala Guru (2014).

UNESCO defines intangible heritage as the practices, expressions, rituals, knowledge and craftsmanship that communities regard as essential to their cultural identity. These traditions, carried forward through generations, evolve with time and strengthen cultural diversity.

The recognition comes as India hosts UNESCO’s 20th session of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Committee for the first time, from December 8 to 13. The historic Red Fort complex in Delhi, itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been selected as the venue to underline the harmony between India’s tangible and intangible heritage.

India’s permanent delegate to UNESCO, Vishal V Sharma, is chairing the session. The event coincides with the twentieth anniversary of India’s ratification of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, reaffirming the nation’s long-standing commitment to preserving and promoting its living cultural traditions.