Diwali Added to UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List

Diwali Secures UNESCO Heritage Status, Marking a Historic Cultural Milestone for India

Diwali, one of India’s most widely celebrated festivals, has formally been inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list , marking a landmark moment for global recognition of Indian traditions. The announcement, made during UNESCO’s ongoing session in New Delhi, has sparked nationwide celebrations and renewed focus on safeguarding traditional cultural practices.

International Recognition of a Timeless Tradition

Diwali’s inclusion mirrors its deep cultural symbolism and its observance across diverse regions and communities. UNESCO highlighted the festival’s emphasis on light overcoming darkness , social harmony and its role in reinforcing community ties. The inscription aims to ensure the preservation, documentation and wider appreciation of this living cultural expression.

UNESCO Session Highlights Cultural Diversity

This year’s session is reviewing nominations from more than seventy countries, reflecting global momentum to protect cultural heritage in an increasingly modernising world. Diwali’s selection underscores its historical continuity, vibrant rituals and the powerful narratives it carries through mythology, oral traditions and household practices.

Nationwide Celebrations After the Announcement

Cities across India responded with large-scale festivities. New Delhi planned public illuminations, themed decorations and mass lamp-lighting events to honour the global recognition. Social media lit up with messages of pride as Indians celebrated a festival deeply tied to identity, renewal and cultural memory.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Diwali is now part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list (2025).

• The festival symbolises victory of good over evil and renewal of life.

• Linked to the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya in the Ramayana tradition.

• Celebrated across religions including Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism and Buddhism .