New Delhi, Dec 10 (NationPress) The inclusion of Deepawali in UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity has been met with enthusiasm in India, marking a truly joyous occasion.

Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), expressed his delight via social media platform 'X', stating, "A moment of joy as Deepavali, the festival of lights that symbolizes the victory of good over evil, is celebrated globally and now recognized in the @UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, following the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya."

Earlier today, UNESCO shared the news on its official X account, declaring: "BREAKING: New inscription on the #IntangibleHeritage List: Deepavali, #India. Congratulations!"

During a week-long session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee, which commenced at Delhi’s Red Fort on Monday, 67 nominations from nearly 80 countries, including India’s Deepavali festival, were assessed.

This marks the 20th session of the Committee, taking place from December 8 to 13 at this historical Mughal-era site. Notably, this is India's first time hosting a session of the UNESCO panel.

The Red Fort will serve as the main venue, where esteemed dignitaries and international representatives will enjoy cultural performances, the ceremonial lighting of diyas, and specially curated exhibitions that highlight the traditional arts linked to the festival.

To embody the festive spirit, the Delhi government has been instructed to illuminate prominent buildings, set up decorative lighting, distribute diyas in public areas, and organize cultural events across various districts, creating a vibrant Diwali atmosphere throughout the national capital.

Additionally, Chhath Puja, a festival honoring the Sun God, has also been nominated for inclusion in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The Union Ministry of Culture has reached out to the Sangeet Natak Akademi to evaluate a proposal concerning this nomination and take suitable action.

India currently boasts 15 elements inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, including the Kumbh Mela, Kolkata’s Durga Puja, Gujarat’s Garba, Yoga, Vedic chanting, Ramlila, Ramman, and Kutiyattam. The addition of Deepavali further enhances India’s cultural prestige on the world stage.

UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List was established to better safeguard vital cultural practices globally and raise awareness of their importance. This list encompasses living expressions and traditions, including skills, knowledge, expressions, representations, practices, as well as the artifacts, objects, instruments, and cultural spaces recognized by communities or individuals as part of their cultural heritage.