Deepavali,  India’s iconic Festival of Lights  has been added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list (2025), during UNESCO’s 20th Intergovernmental Committee session at the Red Fort, New Delhi.

• It is recognised as a “living heritage” that promotes generosity, well-being, and community spirit.

About Deepavali

• Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is a light festival celebrated annually by diverse individuals and communities across India.
• It marks the last harvest of the year and the start of a new year and new season. 
• It falls on the new moon in October or November, based on the lunar calendar.
• It is a joyous occasion that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
• During this time, people clean and decorate their homes and public spaces, light lamps and candles, set off fireworks, and offer prayers for prosperity and new beginnings.
• A vibrant expression of shared heritage and identity, Deepavali strengthens social bonds, promotes inclusivity, and encourages values such as. 

About Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)

• Intangible cultural heritage comprises practices, expressions, knowledge, and skills that communities recognize as part of their cultural identity and transmit across generations.

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Key Characteristics

• ICH must be community-recognized, transmitted over time, and contribute to identity, continuity, and respect for cultural diversity.
• UNESCO-Inscribed ICH of India: India has 16 UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) elements, including:
  • Ramlila (North India, 2008), Ramman (2009), Kutiyattam (Kerala, 2008), Vedic Chanting (Pan-India, 2008), Mudiyettu (Kerala, 2010), Chhau Dance (Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, 2010), Kalbelia (Rajasthan, 2010), Ladakh Buddhist Chanting (Ladakh, 2012), Sankirtana (Manipur, 2013), Thathera Craft (Punjab, 2014), Yoga (India, 2016), , Kumbh Mela (India, 2017), Durga Puja (Kolkata, 2021), Garba (Gujarat, 2023), Nowruz (Parsi, India, 2024), Deepavali (2025).

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