Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec. 10: The Directorate of Art & Culture, Andaman & Nicobar Administration, organised a grand cultural evening at the Andaman Club, today to mark a historic milestone: the official inscription of Deepavali into UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
This recognition, announced during the 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (IGC20COM) held at the Red Fort in New Delhi, affirms Diwali’s global significance as a festival symbolizing light, knowledge, harmony, and spiritual heritage.
The cultural programme in Andaman Club featured traditional dance performances, a vibrant rangoli contest-cum-exhibition, and the illumination of earthen oil lamps and lights, all of which brought alive the timeless traditions of Diwali. The evening highlighted the festival’s role in fostering social unity and celebrating India’s rich intangible cultural heritage.
Speaking on the occasion as the chief guest, the Secretary (Art & Culture), Ms Jyoti Kumari, IAS emphasized that UNESCO’s recognition of Deepavali is not merely a cultural achievement but a global acknowledgment of India’s centuries-old traditions of spirituality, inclusivity, and the triumph of light over darkness. The Director (Art & Culture), Ms Priyanka Kumari while speaking called it a great achievement for the country.
Prizes to the winners of inter-collegiate rangoli competition were also given on the occasion. Teams of Tagore Govt. College of Education, School of Nursing, Jawaharlal Nehru Rajkeeya Mahavidyalaya and Industrial Training Institute, Dollygunj bagged the First, Second, Third and Consolation prizes respectively. A vibrant cultural programme was also presented by different State Associations, local cultural organization & individuals befitting the occasion. The Assistant Director (Art & Culture), Ms. Kanak Radha Chatterjee proposed the vote of thanks.
Meanwhile, to celebrate the joyous occasion, the National Memorial Cellular Jail, Andaman Club, NSCB Island and other heritage places/structures of the Isles were also illuminated with lights and diyas.