Deepavali, one of India’s most important cultural and spiritual festivals, has officially been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH).
Recognised for its deeper cultural and spiritual meaning, Deepavali remains a living tradition — connecting millions through shared joy, renewal, and togetherness as its lamps shine across cities, villages, and diaspora communities worldwide.
What is UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)?
UNESCO’s ICH list honours living traditions — cultural practices, rituals, performing arts, crafts, and community knowledge systems.
It focuses on communities and practitioners, especially indigenous groups, placing them at the centre of safeguarding humanity’s living heritage.
With Deepavali now on the ICH List, the recognition celebrates:
▪︎ Millions who observe and preserve this timeless festival
▪︎ Artisans and practitioners who sustain its rituals and crafts.
▪︎ Deepavali’s universal message of light, hope, and harmony that continues to illuminate hearts across India and the world.