New Delhi, 10 December (H.S.): Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Wednesday described the inclusion of Diwali in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as a moment of immense pride for every Indian.In a video message shared on social media platform X, the Chief Minister said the global recognition bestowed upon India’s age-old Sanatan traditions affirms their timeless divinity and universality on the world’s highest cultural stage.

Gupta emphasized that this honour symbolizes the international acknowledgment of Diwali’s eternal values—light, harmony, and righteousness. “Diwali is not just a festival; it is a spiritual illumination that has guided humanity for centuries on the path of truth, hope, and virtue,” she remarked, adding that the Delhi government joyfully welcomes this historic announcement.

Highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi’ (“Development along with Heritage”), the Chief Minister said the achievement further strengthens India’s cultural narrative. “After yoga, Kumbh Mela, Durga Puja, and Garba, Diwali’s inclusion in UNESCO’s heritage list makes our cultural journey even more radiant,” she noted.

Gupta expressed gratitude to UNESCO and to all the families, artisans, and devotees who have nurtured this luminous tradition through generations with devotion and continuity.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar