Deepavali Celebrated as UNESCO Recognizes Festival of Lights

India’s cherished festival of lights, Deepavali, has officially been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The announcement was made on December 13, 2023, during a significant meeting at the historic Red Fort in Delhi, marking a moment of national pride and celebration.

The decision to include Deepavali on this prestigious list was met with exuberant cheers from attendees, who chanted slogans such as “Jai Hind” and “Bharat Mata ki Jai.” This festive atmosphere was enhanced by performances from artists in traditional attire, showcasing the vibrant cultural heritage associated with the celebration.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his delight over the recognition, emphasizing its potential to enhance the festival’s global presence. In a post on X, he stated, “People in India and around the world are thrilled,” highlighting the widespread joy surrounding this announcement.

Following the inscription, Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat addressed the assembly, affirming that this recognition celebrates a festival deeply woven into the fabric of Indian culture. He noted that Deepavali is not only significant for its cultural resonance but also serves as a symbol of renewal, peace, and the victory of good over evil.

“This UNESCO honour acknowledges the eternal human longing for renewal,” Shekhawat remarked, underscoring the importance of preserving the traditions associated with Deepavali. He also stressed the responsibility that comes with this recognition, urging that Deepavali remains a vibrant part of cultural heritage for future generations.

Deepavali, which is celebrated not only in India but also in various parts of the world, involves illuminating homes with traditional lamps, known as “diya,” and signifies the triumph of light over darkness. This recent inscription marks the sixteenth element from India to be included on UNESCO’s Representative List, joining other significant cultural practices such as the Kumbh Mela and yoga.

The nomination for Deepavali was submitted to UNESCO in 2023 as part of the 2024-25 cycle, and this session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage is notably the first to be hosted by India. The session is ongoing from December 8 to 13, 2023, and is examining a total of 67 nominations from nearly 80 countries.

On the same day as Deepavali’s inclusion, new elements were recognized, including traditional practices from Iraq and Jordan, expanding the global tapestry of cultural heritage.

As this momentous occasion unfolds, Shekhawat invited citizens to commemorate the upcoming Deepavali by lighting “an extra lamp” as a symbol of gratitude and good governance. He concluded his address with the Sanskrit chant “Tamso Maa Jyotirgamaya,” which translates to “from darkness take me to light,” a fitting sentiment for a festival centered around illumination and hope.

With this recognition, Deepavali stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of cultural traditions and their ability to foster connection and understanding across borders.