Diwali, one of India’s most important cultural festivals, has been included in UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The decision was made during a session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in Delhi.

This is reported by ANI, a partner of TV BRICS.

Diwali, or the festival of lights, is a holiday dedicated to the victory of good over evil, light over darkness. It falls on the new moon in October or November and lasts for several days, each of which is associated with certain rituals.

During this time, people clean and decorate their homes and public places, light lamps and candles, set off fireworks and pray for prosperity and success in new endeavours.

One of the symbols of the holiday is rangoli. It is a pattern made of coloured sand and rice flour, which is sprinkled in homes and public places. Rangoli depicts a lotus or simply an ornate pattern designed to “confuse” evil spirits.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the inclusion of Diwali in the UNESCO list, calling the holiday “the soul of Indian civilisation.”

In addition to Diwali, 15 elements from India are included in the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage, including yoga, Vedic chanting, the Kumbh Mela and Durga Puja festivals. 

(TV BRICS/NAN