Deepavali Added to UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List

Syllabus: GS1/ Culture

Context

• Deepavali has been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during the 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee, held in New Delhi.

About Deepavali

• Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is celebrated on Kartik Amaavasya, which typically falls in October or November.
  • Residences, thoroughfares, and temples are illuminated with numerous oil lamps.
• The festival opens with Dhanteras, when families purchase metalware or essentials as symbols of prosperity.
  • It is followed by Naraka Chaturdashi.
  • The third day is the highlight of Deepavali- the sacred Lakshmi-Ganesha Puja.

Popular Legends of Deepavali

• In the Ramayana, it signifies the return of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and their victory over Ravana, celebrated with lamps lighting their path. 
• In the Mahabharata, it marks the return of the Pandavas after their exile.
• Naraka Chaturdashi recalls Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura, symbolising the end of evil.
• Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankar, attained Nirvana on Deepavali at Pavapuri. Jain devotees celebrate this festival with enthusiasm as Nirvana Day.
• King Bali’s Return: In Maharashtra, Deepavali marks the visit of King Bali, symbolising justice and generosity.
• Kali Puja: In Bengal, Odisha and Assam, Deepavali coincides with the worship of Goddess Kali for protection and inner strength.

About the Intangible cultural heritage – Intangible cultural heritage, includes the practices, knowledge, expressions, objects, and spaces that communities see as part of their cultural identity. a. Passed down over generations, this heritage evolves, strengthening cultural identity and appreciation of diversity. – Historical Background: For the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, UNESCO adopted the 2003 Convention during its 32nd General Conference in Paris. a. India ratified the convention in 2005. Other India’s Intangible Cultural Heritage Inscribed by UNESCO – To date, 16 Indian elements have been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List (including Deepavali) and the country has served on the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for three terms.

Source: PIB