Diwali Earns UNESCO Recognition, Delhi to Celebrate the Festival Once Again in a Grand Way
Updated: December 10, 2025 | 2:16 PM IST
India has received a moment of global pride as Diwali, the country’s most widely celebrated festival of lights, has been officially included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. With this international recognition, the glow of Diwali is set to shine even brighter across the world.
On Wednesday, UNESCO released its updated list under the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s Intangible Cultural Heritage framework. The festival of Diwali has now been formally added, acknowledging its deep cultural, spiritual, and social significance.
Reacting to the announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his happiness and described Diwali as the very soul of Indian civilisation. He said the global recognition highlights India’s age-old traditions that promote the values of light over darkness and good over evil.
Delhi to Re-Celebrate Diwali on December 10
Following UNESCO’s decision, the Delhi government announced special celebrations across the national capital. Delhi minister Kapil Mishra stated that Diwali will be celebrated once again on December 10 to mark this historic achievement.
According to the announcement, all government buildings in Delhi will be illuminated, special cultural programmes will be organised at Dilli Haat, and thousands of diyas will be lit at the iconic Red Fort. The government has invited citizens to actively participate and make the celebrations memorable.
The grandest events are expected to take place at Lal Qila, where the lighting of lamps will symbolise Diwali’s universal message of hope, harmony, and enlightenment. The initiative aims to present Diwali as a global festival that unites people beyond borders and cultures.
Strengthening India’s Cultural Claim Globally
The Delhi government and the BJP leadership believe that showcasing Diwali as a celebration of humanity’s journey from darkness to light strengthens India’s cultural presence on the global stage. This recognition reinforces India’s long-standing efforts to preserve and promote its intangible heritage internationally.
India’s Growing Presence on UNESCO’s Intangible Heritage List
With Diwali’s inclusion, India continues to strengthen its footprint on UNESCO’s prestigious list. So far, 15 Indian cultural elements have already been recognised as Intangible Cultural Heritage. These include Durga Puja, Kumbh Mela, Vedic chanting, Ramlila, and Chhau dance.
UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list focuses on cultural traditions and practices that cannot be physically preserved but are deeply felt and passed down through generations. Diwali’s inclusion acknowledges not just a festival, but a living tradition that continues to inspire millions around the world.