New Delhi: India celebrates a proud cultural moment as Deepavali has officially been added to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The festival, cherished in households across the nation, has now been acknowledged globally as a tradition of immense cultural value.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday welcomed the announcement with happiness and pride, noting that the recognition reflects the deep cultural significance of Deepavali, according to an official statement.
In response to UNESCO’s post on X, he said: “The addition of Deepavali to the UNESCO Intangible Heritage List will contribute to the festival’s global popularity even further.”
People in India and around the world are thrilled.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 10, 2025
For us, Deepavali is very closely linked to our culture and ethos. It is the soul of our civilisation. It personifies illumination and righteousness. The addition of Deepavali to the UNESCO Intangible Heritage List will… https://t.co/JxKEDsv8fT
Similarly, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan conveyed his joy over the inscription, calling it a historic honour for the country.
In a post on X, he said: “My warm congratulations to all fellow countrymen on this recognition, which celebrates India’s rich cultural heritage and its enduring message for humanity.”
Delighted to note UNESCO’s inscription of Deepavali on the Intangible Cultural Heritage list. This global recognition is a profound moment of pride for every Indian.
— Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) December 10, 2025
Deepavali is not just a festival, it is a civilisational phenomenon that unites the nation and resonates across… https://t.co/7kh7mYjfBu