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Diwali Earns UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Status, Sparking Celebrations in Delhi

NEW DELHI, December 11, 2025 – Deepavali, the Festival of Lights, has been officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list, prompting widespread celebrations across India, particularly in the nation’s capital. The announcement, made during the 20th UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee session held at the Red Fort, was met with jubilation by government officials and citizens alike.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta hailed the recognition as a “golden chapter” in Indian culture, stating that it reflects the world’s increasing appreciation for India’s rich civilizational heritage. Ms. Gupta, accompanied by Cabinet Ministers, joined Diwali celebrations at Dilli Haat, where she addressed a gathering, emphasizing that Deepavali, deeply ingrained in the hearts of Indians, is now acknowledged globally as a shared cultural treasure.

The Delhi government is marking the occasion with grand festivities, including citywide decorations, a lamp-lighting ceremony, special illuminations at government buildings, and various celebratory programs throughout the city.

“Representatives from 180 countries are in India today, and UNESCO’s important meeting is taking place at Delhi’s Red Fort. The inclusion of our grand festival Deepavali in the UNESCO list is a moment of pride for 1.4 billion Indians,” Ms. Gupta stated, highlighting the global significance of the event.

The Chief Minister further credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for India’s growing international recognition, citing Yoga’s earlier global honor as another example of the country’s cultural impact.

To gain UNESCO recognition, India submitted a detailed nomination dossier for Deepavali during the 2024-2025 cycle. Each country is permitted to nominate only one element every two years.

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