HC’s Remarks on Inscription of Diwali in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

(MGICC, 10.12.2025)

• Hon’ble Dharmacharya Pt Rampersad Parasram
• Especially Invited Guests 
• Colleagues from the High Commission and MGICC
• Ladies & Gentlemen

Namaste! Good evening to all. I welcome you all for taking time this evening on a short notice. 

This is indeed a special occasion; something, which is a shared cultural heritage, something which is celebrated in Trinidad & Tobago equally in as in Bharat – sometimes more than Bharat. 

At the historic Red Fort in New Delhi where the 20th Session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee is taking place, Deepavali, the festival of lights, has been inscribed on UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

The inscription was adopted in the presence of delegates from 194 Member States, international experts, and representatives of UNESCO’s global network. 

Hon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji said on this occasion : “People in India and around the world are thrilled. 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 contribute to the festival’s global popularity even further. May the ideals of Prabhu Shri Ram keep guiding us for eternity.”  

It is the 16th Indian element on this list of UNESCO: 

• 2008: Ramlila, Tradition of Vedic chanting, Kuttiyattam (Sanskrit theatre) 
• 2009: Ramman Festival (Garhwal Himalayas)
• 2010: Chhau dance of East India, Kalbelia folk songs and dances (Rajasthan), Mudiyettu (folk dance Kerala)
• 2014: Traditional brass and copper craft of utensil making (Thatheras of Punjab)
• 2016: Yoga
• 2017: Kumbh Mela
• 2021: Durga Puja in Kolkata
• 2023: Garba of Gujarat

To include an element on UNESCO’s Representative List of ICH, states must submit a nomination dossier for evaluation. Each country can nominate one element every two years. India nominated ‘Deepavali’ Festival for the 2024–25 cycle.

The nomination process for Deepavali on UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity highlights an inclusive, community-driven approach. The Sangeet Natak Akademi, under the Ministry of Culture, formed a diverse expert committee of scholars, practitioners, artists, writers, and specialists nationwide. 

Deepavali, for India, is far more than an annual festival; it is a living tradition woven into the emotional and cultural fabric of millions. Every year, as lamps begin to glow across cities, villages, and distant diasporic homes, Deepavali rekindles a familiar sense of joy, renewal, and connection. It invites people to pause, remember, and come together to remind the world why this festival rightfully deserves a place among humanity’s treasured cultural traditions.

This honour belongs to every home that has ever lit a ‘diya’ and kept alive the spirit of renewal and hope. Today’s inscription is a global acknowledgement that this message resonates beyond borders and speaks to humanity’s shared yearning for harmony. This inscription is not only recognition; it is a responsibility. In a divided and uncertain world, the simple yet resolute significance of Deepavali may continue to endure: the lamp may be one, but its light belongs to all.

The fundamental philosophy of Deepavali encompasses the celebration of prosperity, renewal, and abundance for all individuals. Its inclusive character fosters mutual respect and promotes unity within diversity among various individuals and communities; consequently, no aspect of the festival contravenes the principles of social cohesion and respect for cultural plurality. 

The illumination of numerous oil lamps, emanating a warm golden glow that represents light overcoming darkness and righteousness triumphing over evil. Markets are bustling with vibrant fabrics and intricate handicrafts that sparkle beneath the illumination, enhancing the festive atmosphere. 

The Festival of Lights is a living tradition carried forward by communities, continuously recreated across generations, supporting social cohesion and contributing to development.

Deepavali supports livelihoods and traditional skills nationwide. Rural communities celebrate with rituals that honour nature and mark agricultural cycles. Artisans—potters, lantern makers, decorators, florists, sweet-makers, jewellers, textile artisans, and small businesses—see increased economic activity during the festival. Their work is vital to our economy.

Deepavali also reinforces values of charity, generosity and food security; many communities engage in food distribution, donations and special gatherings for the elderly, visually impaired, prison inmates and individuals with special needs.

In recent years, environmental stewardship has increasingly shaped the narrative around Deepavali celebrations. Government interventions, such as the development of “green crackers” and national campaigns like Swachh Diwali and Shubh Diwali, have encouraged eco-friendly festivities while preserving the festival's cultural spirit. 

Rituals associated with cleaning homes, markets and public spaces promote hygiene and a healthy lifestyle, while the coming together of families and friends enhances social, and emotional well-being.

The inscription of Deepavali on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List is a tribute to the millions who celebrate it with devotion, to the artisans who keep its traditions alive, and to the timeless principles it represents. It tells the world that India’s cultural heritage is not merely remembered, it is lived, loved, and passed forward.

Once again thanks so much for joining for this celebration!!

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