India’s festival of lights Diwali has been added to UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list sparking nationwide celebrations. The announcement was made during a UN cultural agency meeting in New Delhi which is examining nominations from more than 78 countries.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the decision calling Diwali “the soul of our civilisation,” a festival that embodies illumination righteousness and the triumph of good over evil. He said the UNESCO recognition will help spread the festival’s global popularity even further.
Across India celebrations are already underway. In the capital special illuminations light up buildings and major roads while massive lamp lighting ceremonies bring communities together. Diwali also observed by Sikh and Jain communities is a five day festival celebrated with lamps fireworks and prayers especially to the goddess of wealth Lakshmi.
In northern India the festival commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana symbolizing victory over darkness. Millions of people across the country and around the world participate in the festivities making it one of Hinduism’s most important cultural events.
India’s foreign ministry called the UNESCO listing a “joyous moment,” emphasizing the global recognition of the country’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring significance of Diwali in Indian society.
