Diwali added to UNESCO’s cultural heritage list; PM Modi says…

New Delhi: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has added Diwali to the intangible cultural heritage list. On Wednesday, 10 December 2025, UNESCO released its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The list also includes cultural symbols from several countries, including Ghana, Georgia, Congo, Ethiopia, and Egypt.

Reacting to this, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Diwali is the soul of our civilization.” India(BHARAT) already has 15 intangible cultural heritage sites on the list. These include Durga Puja, Kumbh Mela, Vedic chanting, Ramlila, and Chhau dance.

Delhi Is Hosting 20th Session Of UNESCO Session

This decision comes as Delhi is hosting the 20th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage. The session will run from December 8 to 13. Taking advantage of this occasion, the central government has decided to hold a special Diwali celebration on December 10 to strongly showcase India(BHARAT)’s cultural identity to the world.

‘Diwali Is Linked To Culture And Nature’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a congratulatory message on X, wrote, “People in India(BHARAT) 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. @UNESCO.”

People in India(BHARAT) 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… https://t.co/JxKEDsv8fT

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 10, 2025

15 India(BHARAT)n Heritage Sites Already On The List

This UNESCO list includes cultural and traditional elements from around the world that cannot be touched but can be experienced. It is also known as the Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Its purpose is to ensure that these cultural heritage elements are preserved and passed on to future generations.

Currently, 15 India(BHARAT)n heritage sites have already made it to the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. These include Durga Puja, Kumbh Mela, Vedic chanting, Ramlila, and Chhau dance.