Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: UNESCO on Wednesday officially inscribed Diwali, one of India’s most significant festivals, into its Intangible Cultural Heritage list. The announcement came during the ongoing 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee being held in Delhi, where nominations from 78 countries are under review.
PM Modi Hails UNESCO Recognition
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed joy on X, stating that people across India and around the world are delighted. He described Diwali as a festival deeply rooted in India’s culture and values, calling it the “soul of our civilization.”
Modi added that Diwali symbolizes truth and light, and its inclusion in UNESCO’s heritage list will further elevate its global stature. He wrote that the ideals of Lord Ram continue to inspire humanity.
India Hosts UNESCO ICH Session for the First Time
This is the first time India is hosting the Intergovernmental Committee session on safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage. The session, inaugurated at the Red Fort on 8 December, will continue until 13 December.
As soon as UNESCO announced Diwali’s inscription, chants of “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” echoed across the venue, highlighting the emotional significance of the moment.
Cultural Leaders Celebrate Global Honour
Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said UNESCO has honoured the timeless human aspiration for peace and the triumph of good over evil. He noted that Diwali is an emotional festival for Indians and credited potters, artisans, and countless workers who keep this cultural heritage alive.
Delhi’s Rekha Gupta government has also announced special cultural programs across the city to mark the global recognition.
