Deepavali Added to UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List

14 December 20251 min read

Why in the news

India’s festival of lights gained a UNESCO listing, recognising its cultural and social significance.

Living traditions, rituals, performing arts, crafts and knowledge that communities treat as part of their identity; community-based and dynamic.

Aims: safeguard living heritage, support practitioners, promote diversity and dialogue. States must inventory, conserve and report periodically.

1. Deepavali was inscribed on which UNESCO list at the 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee in New Delhi?

Deepavali was added to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

2. In which year did India ratify UNESCO's Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage?

The convention was adopted in 2003 and in force from 2006; India ratified it in 2005.

3. How many domains does the UNESCO ICH framework cover, according to the Deepavali inscription notes?

Five domains: oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, nature knowledge and craftsmanship.