Deepavali has now joined the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The festival of lights appears on the 2025 list alongside 19 other cultural traditions from around the world.

UNESCO created this list to protect living traditions that shape the identity of communities. It covers practices passed down through generations, from festivals and rituals to performing arts, oral traditions, and traditional craftsmanship.

India’s entry this year is Deepavali, celebrated across the country as a symbol of joy, renewal, and community bonding. The traditional Tangail saree weaving art, rooted in Bengal’s craft heritage, has also earned a place on the list.

UNESCO describes intangible heritage as a set of living practices that are traditional and contemporary at the same time. It emphasises community participation, cultural diversity, and mutual respect among cultures.

With Deepavali added this year, India’s recognised entries include Durga Puja in Kolkata, Kumbh Mela, Nowruz, Ladakh’s Buddhist chanting, Manipuri Sankirtana, Chhau dance, the craftsmanship of Punjab’s Thatheras, Mudiyettu of Kerala, Ramman festival of Garhwal, Kutiyattam, Ramlila, and Vedic chanting.

Deepavali’s inscription strengthens global recognition of India’s living cultural traditions and adds another chapter to they country’s growing presence on UNESCO’s heritage map.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the start of the 20th session of UNESCO’s Committee on Intangible Cultural Heritage in New Delhi, calling it a proud cultural moment for the country.