Diwali’s recent inclusion in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity was celebrated with vibrant events at Indian consulates in Houston and Atlanta.
HOUSTON, TX – The Consulate General of India in Houston hosted a lively event to commemorate Diwali’s inclusion in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition highlights the festival’s global significance and its universal messages of light, harmony, and goodwill.
During the celebration, Indian Consul General D.C. Manjunath emphasized the importance of this acknowledgment, noting how Diwali transcends cultural boundaries and resonates with people around the world.
In Atlanta, the Indian Consulate also marked the occasion with a beautiful display of diyas, traditional oil lamps, illuminating the consulate in tribute to the festival and its newfound recognition.
The inclusion of Diwali was part of a broader review by UNESCO, which examined a total of 67 nominations from nearly 80 countries during a week-long session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage. This session took place at Delhi’s Red Fort, beginning on December 8.
Celebrations were not limited to Houston and Atlanta; Indian diplomatic missions across the globe joined in honoring the recognition of Diwali, one of India’s most cherished cultural and spiritual festivals. The global acknowledgment of Diwali underscores its significance as a festival of light and joy, celebrated by millions around the world.
According to IANS, the recognition serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that Diwali represents and its ability to foster unity and peace among diverse communities.