Deepavali was officially added on Wednesday to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, joining nineteen other cultural elements selected for the 2025 roster. The recognition has generated widespread celebration across India as well as in Indian communities worldwide.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the announcement, calling it a moment of pride for the country. In a message shared on X, he said that people across the globe were delighted with the decision. He described Deepavali as a festival deeply rooted in India’s cultural identity and civilisational memory, symbolising light, virtue, and the triumph of good. According to the Prime Minister, the UNESCO listing will enhance the festival’s reach and strengthen its presence on the global cultural stage. He also expressed hope that the ideals embodied in the festival, especially the values represented through Prabhu Shri Ram, would continue to inspire future generations.
The decision to inscribe Deepavali on the list was finalised in the presence of Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Culture Secretary Vivek Aggarwal, senior officials from the Ministry of Culture, delegates from 194 member nations, and experts associated with UNESCO’s international cultural network. Addressing the global audience, the Culture Minister said the inscription was a historic moment for India and for all communities that preserve the essence of Deepavali across different regions of the world.
He highlighted that the festival reflects the message of “Tamso Ma Jyotirgamaya,” signifying the movement from darkness toward light and expressing themes of renewal and harmony. In a later post on X, he emphasised that UNESCO’s acknowledgment serves as a significant international honour for Indian society. He described the achievement as a cause for nationwide celebration and extended his best wishes to people everywhere who cherish the festival’s luminous traditions.
Along with Deepavali, the traditional Tangail saree weaving craft also earned a place in the 2025 list, further recognising the diversity and creativity found in South Asian cultural practices.
