Diwali Added to UNESCO Heritage List
UNESCO has added Diwali (Deepavali) to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, following a meeting in New Delhi that reviewed nominations from 78 countries. Indian leaders welcomed the move, and officials across India are marking the decision with public illumination and ceremonies; the designation highlights Diwali's global cultural significance and its potential to foster greater understanding abroad, including in the BVI.
UNESCO has approved the addition of Diwali, also known as Deepavali, to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity after a session in New Delhi that reviewed dozens of nominations from 78 countries. The listing is intended to raise awareness of the festival's cultural importance and encourage measures to ensure its continued practice and protection.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the decision, calling Diwali "very closely linked to our culture and ethos" and describing it as "the soul of our civilisation. It personifies illumination and righteousness." India's foreign ministry described the inclusion as a "joyous moment" for the country.
Local authorities in Delhi are marking the recognition with large-scale illumination of buildings, decorations along major roads and a ceremonial lamp-lighting. Diwali is one of the most widely observed festivals stemming from Hindu traditions and is also marked by Sikh and Jain communities.
Celebrations typically span up to five days and symbolise the triumph of good over evil. The festival falls on the new moon day in late October or November and is traditionally observed through lighting oil lamps and candles, setting off firecrackers in some communities, and performing prayers — notably worship of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
In many parts of north India the festival commemorates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. For residents of the British Virgin Islands, UNESCO recognition of Diwali underscores the value of cultural diversity and the importance of protecting living traditions.
Local Hindu, Sikh and Jain residents and cultural groups may find renewed international attention opens opportunities for community celebration, cultural exchange and education about the festival's meanings and practices. Tourism stakeholders here could also note the wider international visibility such recognitions bring, which can foster cultural tourism and events that showcase multicultural life in the BVI.
The UNESCO listing is part of an effort to document and support intangible cultural practices worldwide — from festivals and performing arts to knowledge and craft traditions — so they can be transmitted to future generations. Observers say formal recognition does not change how people celebrate Diwali but can help mobilise resources and goodwill for preserving its rituals and values locally and globally. (Reporting based on a news report by Virgin Islands News Online.)
Primary source: VINO