Diwali is likely to be inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list of humanity. The announcement is expected on December 10, during the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, being hosted for the first time in India at the Red Fort, New Delhi, from December 8 to 13. India nominated Deepavali in 2023, highlighting its cultural, spiritual, and social significance as a festival of light, brotherhood, compassion, and collective celebration.
India currently has 15 elements on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, including Durga Puja, Garba, Kumbh Mela, Yoga, Vedic chanting, and Ramlila. Hosting this global session provides strategic and diplomatic advantages for India, strengthening collaboration with UNESCO and enhancing cultural diplomacy and soft power. Over 800 delegates from more than 180 countries, including Committee members, UNESCO officials, experts, accredited NGOs, and practitioners, are expected to participate.
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat stated that hosting the meeting will help increase India’s global influence, provide a platform to showcase diverse heritage, strengthen international cooperation on cultural preservation, and inspire younger generations to connect with their cultural identity. The session will be chaired by Ambassador Vishal V Sharma, India’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO. Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, bringing communities together across religions, regions, and languages.
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