Full Breakdown
Diwali Recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
12/10/2025, 11:45:22 AM
UNESCO Recognition and Celebrations
On December 10, 2025, India's festival of lights, Diwali, was officially added to UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This announcement was made during a session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee held in New Delhi from December 9 to 11, where representatives from 78 countries reviewed numerous nominations. The recognition aims to raise awareness of cultural diversity and protect these traditions for future generations. In response to the announcement, the Delhi government organized various events, including special illuminations of key buildings and a large lamp-lighting ceremony.
Significance of Diwali
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is celebrated by millions, including Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains, as a five-day festival symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the victory of light over darkness. The festival typically occurs on the new moon day in late October or November and is marked by lighting oil lamps, decorating homes, sharing sweets, and bursting firecrackers. In northern India, Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, while it is also associated with the worship of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
Official Statements and Responses
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the UNESCO recognition, describing it as a moment of pride for India. He stated that Diwali is "very closely linked to our culture and ethos" and represents "the soul of our civilisation." Modi emphasized that this recognition would enhance the festival's global visibility, expressing hope that the ideals of Lord Rama would continue to guide people. The Indian Foreign Ministry echoed this sentiment, calling the addition of Diwali to the UNESCO list a "joyous moment" for the country.
Criticism and Opposition
While the recognition of Diwali has been largely celebrated, some critics argue that UNESCO's focus on intangible cultural heritage can sometimes overlook the complexities and regional variations of cultural practices. They suggest that such recognitions may lead to a homogenization of diverse traditions, potentially diluting their unique local significance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “For us, Deepavali is very closely linked to our culture and ethos. It is the soul of our civilisation. It personifies illumination and righteousness,” — Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- “A joyous moment as Deepavali, the festival of lights marking the triumph of good over evil and the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom Ayodhya, which is celebrated globally, is added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list,” — Indian Foreign Ministry
Conclusion
The inclusion of Diwali in UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage list marks a significant recognition of the festival's cultural importance and its global celebration. As festivities unfold in India and among the Indian diaspora worldwide, the event highlights the enduring significance of Diwali in promoting cultural diversity and heritage.
