Amit Shah Celebrates Deepavali's Inclusion in UNESCO Intangible Heritage List as a Proud Moment for India

In a significant cultural milestone for India, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has officially included Deepavali, the Hindu festival of lights, in its Intangible Heritage List. This decision has drawn widespread accolades, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasizing the honor as a moment of pride for the nation and a testament to its rich cultural legacy.

In a statement released shortly after the announcement, Shah highlighted the longstanding traditions associated with Deepavali, which celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. “This recognition is not merely for the festival itself but for the values it embodies and the unity it fosters across diverse communities in India and beyond,” he remarked. The festival, celebrated by millions of Hindus around the world, involves the lighting of oil lamps, festive gatherings, and the sharing of sweets, all aimed at fostering joy and familial bonds.

The addition of Deepavali to the UNESCO list underscores a growing global recognition of Indian cultural practices. UNESCO’s designation emphasizes the need to preserve and promote such intangible heritages, recognizing their importance in fostering mutual understanding and respect among different cultures. As deeper international connections evolve, the acknowledgment of festivals like Deepavali could encourage intercultural dialogue, a sentiment echoed by cultural historians across the country.

Celebrated primarily in India but also embraced by Indian communities worldwide, Deepavali symbolizes hope and renewal. In addition to its spiritual significance, the festival contributes significantly to local economies, particularly in regions like Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, where elaborate celebrations draw tourism and engage local artisans. The festival’s impact is not only cultural but also economic, stimulating trade in decorative items, sweets, and fireworks.

The inclusion in the Intangible Heritage List is expected to elevate not just awareness but also appreciation of the festival among non-Hindu communities. Educational initiatives may emerge, aimed at celebrating and understanding the multicultural fabric of Indian society, with Deepavali serving as a focal point for these efforts.

As voices of support ripple through social media and public discourse, many Indians express their pride in this recognition. “Deepavali is a celebration of unity, and now the world will understand its essence better,” said Jyoti Mehta, a resident of Ahmedabad, echoing feelings shared widely across social platforms.

With this recognition, India stands poised to shape the narrative around its cultural festivals on a global stage. UNESCO’s endorsement of Deepavali not only encapsulates an important aspect of Indian heritage but also sets a precedent for preserving and valuing diverse cultural expressions. As communities prepare to celebrate the upcoming festival with renewed enthusiasm, they also embrace a deeper understanding of its international significance. Through this acknowledgment, the world can look forward to a continued enrichment of cultural conversations around traditions that transcend borders.