On December 10, an atmosphere reminiscent of Diwali will once again take over the country. Under the directives of the Ministry of Culture, both the central and Delhi governments are conducting a special lighting program. Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, and several key government buildings in Delhi are being beautifully lit with lamps and lights.
Delhi's Minister of Culture, Kapil Mishra, explained that alongside historical monuments, Delhi government buildings will also be accented with lamps and vibrant lights. The main focus will be the Red Fort, where a special event is being organized. Plans are underway to decorate the Chandni Chowk area with rangoli, and there is even a limited plan for fireworks.
Why is 'Diwali' Being Celebrated on December 10?
This grand celebration is being held due to a significant meeting of UNESCO's Intergovernmental Committee, which is taking place from December 8 to 13 at Delhi's Red Fort. In March 2024, the Government of India submitted a proposal to UNESCO to list Diwali as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
UNESCO’s committee is reviewing this proposal, which is 24th on the agenda and is expected to be discussed on December 9 and 10. Government sources express optimism that Diwali will indeed receive the status of a global intangible heritage. With this joyful momentum, major national monuments across the country are set to be illuminated with lamps on December 10.
This Crucial Meeting Occurs Every Two Years
UNESCO holds this meeting biennially. The previous meeting took place in 2023, and the next session is scheduled for 2027. The Indian government has proactively submitted another proposal to include Chhath Puja in the Intangible Cultural Heritage list for the future.
India argues that Diwali extends beyond a mere religious festival and serves as a symbol of social and cultural unity, encompassing family reunions, home cleaning, market decorations, and communal celebrations. So far, UNESCO has recognized 15 Indian traditions and cultures as world heritage across various categories.
India Hosts UNESCO Panel for the First Time
This is the first time India is hosting such a prestigious meeting of UNESCO. The inauguration was graced by many eminent figures, including Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, UNESCO Director-General Khalid Al-Anani, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and India's Permanent Representative to UNESCO Vishal V Sharma. According to UNESCO, this meeting is reviewing intangible cultural heritage proposals from 54 countries worldwide, aiming to include qualifying traditions in the global heritage list.
