Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on Wednesday hailed the inscription of the festival of Deepavali to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Intangible Heritage List, saying the recognition reflects the festival’s deep connection with India’s culture and civilisational ethos and will further enhance its global appeal.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, “People in India and around the world are thrilled. For us, Deepavali is very closely linked to our culture and ethos. It is the soul of our civilisation. It personifies illumination and righteousness. The addition of Deepavali to the UNESCO Intangible Heritage List will contribute to the festival's global popularity even further. May the ideals of Prabhu Shri Ram keep guiding us for eternity.”