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UNESCO Adds Deepavali to Intangible Cultural Heritage List at Delhi Session

The recognition comes with guidance to strengthen ecological and inclusive safeguarding during India’s hosting of the committee’s 20th meeting at the Red Fort.

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Government officials said that the capital has curated performances, lighting rituals, and exhibitions on traditional arts associated with Deepavali for the delegates. (Representative photo)
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Overview

  • The inscription was announced on December 10 during the 20th ICH Committee session at New Delhi’s Red Fort, which runs from December 8 to 13.
  • Deepavali becomes India’s 16th element on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
  • UNESCO’s evaluation praised the nomination dossier, with reports highlighting unanimous adoption and advice to amplify ecological and inclusive practices.
  • Sangeet Natak Akademi led the nomination, compiling community inputs, consent letters and audiovisual testimonials to reflect the festival’s pan-Indian and diaspora reach.
  • Delhi staged performances, diya displays and building illuminations for more than 1,000 international delegates, as national leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the decision.