Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 11: J&K BJP spokesperson and convener for International Affairs, Gaurav Gupta today said that the inclusion of Deepavali on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list marks a defining moment in India’s cultural legacy and reflects the rising global stature of our nation under the transformative leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Gupta said the landmark recognition, announced during the 20th Session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee at the Red Fort in New Delhi, is a powerful acknowledgment of India’s diplomatic and cultural leadership. “Hosting this prestigious session for the first time, with participation from 194 member states,” he added, underscores India’s strengthened global prominence.
He credited Prime Minister’s “visionary cultural diplomacy” for elevating India’s heritage worldwide, saying the inscription of Deepavali stands as a glowing testament to the PM’s commitment to showcasing Bharat’s civilizational depth, spiritual wisdom, and cultural inclusivity. Gupta highlighted the PM’s description of Deepavali as “the soul of our civilization,” symbolizing illumination and the victory of Dharma.
Gupta noted that UNESCO recognized Deepavali for promoting social cohesion, traditional craftsmanship, well-being, and contributing to several Sustainable Development Goals. The nomination, prepared by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, involved extensive consultations with practitioners, artisans, agrarian communities, diaspora groups, persons with special needs, transgender communities, and cultural organisations-reflecting the festival’s inclusive nature.
He added that Deepavali’s emotional resonance extends beyond India, with celebrations in Nepal, including Bhajan evenings at Pashupati Temple, underlining its cultural universality.
With Deepavali’s listing, India now has 16 elements on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage register-many recognized during PM Modi’s tenure, such as Yoga, Garba, Durga Puja, KumbhMela, Vedic chanting, and Ramlila.
Gupta concluded that the inscription is not merely a listing but a global salute to Bharat’s civilizational essence and to the millions who keep the festival’s light alive across generations.
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