Hinduism’s festival of lights, Diwali, has been added to Unesco’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, sparking celebrations around the world. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, meeting in New Delhi this week, is examining nominations from 78 countries. The new additions will join the list, which aims to “raise awareness of the diversity of these traditions” and help safeguard them for future generations.
President of the Midlands Hindu Society and the South African Hindu Maha Sabha, Ranjiv Nirghin, said this global recognition honours the values, traditions, rituals, and spirituality of Hinduism. “We are proud that one of our most important festivals, which celebrates the divinity within us by recognising the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and immortality over death, has been recognised globally,” he said. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the announcement, saying Diwali is “very closely linked to culture and ethos”.
India is organising several events, including special illumination of public buildings, decorations along major roads, and a large ceremonial lamp-lighting. As one of Hinduism’s most significant festivals, millions across the world celebrate Diwali, also known as Deepavali. Many people, including those from the Sikh and Jain communities, observe it as a five-day festival symbolising the triumph of good over evil.
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