The festival Diwali — also known as Deepavali — has been added to the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, becoming the latest Indian tradition to receive global recognition. The inclusion was announced during a meeting of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee being hosted at Delhi’s Red Fort — the first time India is hosting this session. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that “people in India and around the world are thrilled,” describing Diwali as a festi

It's Deepavali once more! 🇮🇳🪔 The inclusion of our festival of lights by UNESCO in their List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity is a celebration of the universal values of hope, courage, and resilience. Over the last 11 years, PM Narendra Modi ji has relentlessly persevered to accord our cultural symbols global respect and recognition. This honour is an ode to the timeless faith that illuminates our hearts and our civilisational spirit. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat | Piyush Goyal