India To Hosts 20th UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Session at Red Fort

India is set to host the 20th session of the Inter-governmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) from 8th to 13th December 2025 at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi. This global cultural event will gather representatives from across the world to deliberate on nominations for the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists, making it a landmark moment in India’s cultural diplomacy.

Significantly, India has nominated Diwali, the widely celebrated festival of lights, for inclusion in UNESCO’s list this year — highlighting its cultural, spiritual, and social significance.

What is Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)?

Intangible Cultural Heritage refers to traditions, expressions, knowledge, and skills that communities recognize as part of their cultural identity. Unlike monuments or artifacts, ICH includes practices such as,

• Oral traditions
• Performing arts
• Rituals and festivals
• Traditional crafts and knowledge systems

UNESCO’s 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage aims to ensure these cultural elements are preserved, respected, and passed on to future generations.

India’s Role as Host Country

Hosting the 20th session reflects India’s growing stature in global cultural forums. The venue, Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adds symbolic value by blending India’s tangible and intangible heritage narratives.

This six-day international gathering will focus on,

• Examining new nominations submitted by UNESCO member states
• Reviewing the current status of elements already on the ICH list
• Discussing strategies and assistance for safeguarding living heritage worldwide

India’s hosting of the session also marks a continuation of its active engagement with UNESCO, promoting culture as a means of international cooperation and sustainable development.

Diwali Nominated for UNESCO Recognition

India’s highlight at this session is the nomination of Diwali for inscription in the ICH list.

Diwali is celebrated by millions across India and globally, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It brings communities together across religions, regions, and languages, promoting values of,

• Brotherhood and unity
• Compassion and generosity
• Community participation through shared rituals, food, and festivities

The nomination was earlier reviewed by independent evaluation bodies, and its final inclusion will be debated during this session. The government has expressed strong confidence in a favourable outcome.

Background: India and UNESCO ICH

India has been an active participant in UNESCO’s cultural heritage initiatives. Over the years, several Indian cultural elements have already been recognized under the Intangible Cultural Heritage list, including,

• Yoga (2016)
• Kumbh Mela (2017)
• Ramlila (2008)
• Chhau Dance (2010)
• Nowruz (2016, as part of multinational nomination)

These inclusions help preserve the traditions and enhance global awareness about India’s diverse cultural landscape.

Significance of the Event

Hosting the session and nominating Diwali carry major implications for India,

• Cultural diplomacy: Strengthens India’s global cultural leadership
• Tourism and economy: Boosts visibility and tourism around Indian festivals
• Cultural preservation: Promotes efforts to safeguard Indian traditions and educate youth
• Global recognition: Enhances the profile of Indian festivals on the international stage

It also reaffirms India’s position as a custodian of civilizational knowledge and a promoter of global cultural harmony.

Key Takeaways

• India is hosting the 20th UNESCO ICH session at Red Fort from 8–13 December 2025
• The event involves discussion on ICH nominations and safeguarding strategies
• India has nominated Diwali for inclusion in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list
• Diwali represents unity, cultural diversity, and community celebration
• The nomination has already passed expert review, with a decision expected during the session