Tourism Breaking News
UNESCO officially adds Deepavali to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, giving India’s globally celebrated festival renewed international recognition and cultural tourism visibility.
Deepavali is now formally inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, following adoption during the 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee at the Red Fort in New Delhi. The announcement is made in the presence of delegates from 194 Member States, senior officials of the Ministry of Culture and representatives from UNESCO’s global network.
Union Minister of Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat says the recognition is a moment of immense pride for India and for communities worldwide who continue to uphold the festival’s traditions. He highlights that Deepavali embodies the universal message “Tamso Ma Jyotirgamaya” — a transition from darkness to light symbolising hope, renewal and harmony.
The Minister underscores the people-centric nature of the festival, noting that Deepavali is sustained by a wide ecosystem of potters, artisans, farmers, sweet makers, priests and households who preserve its customs. He also commends the Indian diaspora for carrying Deepavali’s message across Southeast Asia, Africa, the Gulf, Europe and the Caribbean, strengthening cultural bridges globally.
Prepared by the Ministry of Culture and the Sangeet Natak Akademi, the nomination includes extensive consultations with practitioners, artisans, agrarian communities, diaspora groups, individuals with special needs, transgender communities, cultural organisations and tradition bearers. Their inputs highlight Deepavali’s inclusive character and its role in supporting livelihoods across crafts and traditional industries.
UNESCO notes that Deepavali strengthens social cohesion, supports craftsmanship, reinforces community wellbeing and contributes to Sustainable Development Goals linked to livelihoods, gender equality and cultural education.
The Ministry of Culture states that the inscription will further elevate global awareness of India’s intangible cultural heritage and reinforce efforts to safeguard community-led traditions for future generations.
