Overview
- UNESCO confirmed the inscription during the Intergovernmental Committee session hosted at the Red Fort, the first time India has hosted the panel.
- UNESCO’s decision highlights Deepavali’s themes of hope and renewal and recognizes associated living traditions such as diya-making, rangoli and festive foods.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat welcomed the move, with officials emphasizing responsibilities to safeguard the festival as living heritage.
- Delhi authorities scheduled celebratory programming tied to the session, including citywide illuminations, diya-lighting at the Red Fort and public cultural events.
- The committee is reviewing dozens of nominations from nearly 80 countries this week, while separate proposals such as Chhath Puja are moving through India’s nomination pipeline for future consideration.