Diwali Intangible Cultural Heritage : Diwali is not just a festival, but a tradition full of happiness, hope and light which is celebrated not only in India but by crores of people all over the world. Lighting lamps in homes, colorful decorations, aroma of sweets and special moments spent with family all have their own unique glow of Diwali. For a long time, this festival has remained a symbol of the strength and harmony of Indian culture. This festival is recorded in the minds of people as an occasion when there is light everywhere and everyone welcomes new beginnings. This time the pride associated with Diwali has reached a new height. UNESCO has included it in its intangible cultural heritage list. This honor is not just an announcement, but a global recognition of the cultural brilliance that India has cherished for centuries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also said that this step will further strengthen the identity of Diwali across the world.
Diwali is already established as a huge celebration in India, but now the international respect it has received is a matter of pride for the entire culture. Getting such recognition means that the traditions, experiences and social connections of this festival will remain safe and alive for generations to come. This festival of lights and faith has now truly become a part of the entire world.
Why is Diwali’s global identity special?
Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is a major festival of Hinduism in India. Sikh and Jain communities also have a deep attachment to it and celebrate it with great enthusiasm. This festival lasting five days is considered a symbol of the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. This festival is celebrated on the new moon night, when people illuminate their homes and neighborhoods with lamps and lights.
Being included in the UNESCO list shows that this tradition is not just a religious or cultural program but gives a deep message of human emotions, unity and positivity. Earlier, 15 traditions of India were included in this list, such as Yoga, Kumbh Mela and Durga Puja of Kolkata. Now Diwali has also become a part of that respected group.
UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List – What was included this time?
Every year UNESCO studies the traditions, arts and cultural expressions of different countries and adds them to the list. Many interesting and diverse traditions were included in this year’s list, some of which are:
-Egypt’s popular street food Koshari
-Al-Muhaibis, a game played during Ramadan in Iraq
-Gifata New Year celebration of the Wolaita community of Ethiopia
-Ancient Commandaria Wines of Cyprus
-Ghanaian highlife music and dance
-Circus traditions of Chile
-Iceland’s swimming pools
-and the much-awaited Italian dishes
Italian food is extremely popular throughout the world. Tastes like pizza, pasta, gelato and risotto are loved in every corner of the world. Considering these dishes as an important part of its life and culture, Italy had sent their nomination, which has now been approved.
cultural power of diwali
The biggest meaning of Diwali being included in the UNESCO list is that this festival will now be considered a global cultural heritage. This protects the traditions that have been followed for generations like lighting lamps, making rangoli, coming together of families, cleaning houses, giving gifts and spreading positivity in the society.
In a way, this identity tells the world how deep India’s cultural roots are and what a special role its traditions play in the shared experience of humanity.
The inclusion of Diwali in the UNESCO list is a symbol of India’s cultural power and its growing prestige in the world. This is not just an honor of a festival, but an honor of the feelings that connect people. This light has now become a heritage not only of India but of the whole world.
