Delhi Lights Up: A Historic Diwali Celebration for a Global Honour

New Delhi, December 10, 2025 — Today, Delhi is once again bathed in the warm glow of a thousand lamps and dazzling light displays, transforming iconic landmarks like the Red Fort and the vibrant Chandni Chowk market into a breathtaking spectacle. This unusual mid-December illumination, reminiscent of the traditional Festival of Lights, is not the usual calendar date for Diwali, but a special, spontaneous celebration marking a significant global achievement for India: the inscription of Deepavali onto UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The festivities are primarily centered around the majestic Red Fort, the venue for the ongoing 20th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee. Following the official announcement, the Ministry of Culture, alongside the Delhi government, directed a spectacular lighting programme to mark the momentous occasion.

A Beacon of Heritage at the Red Fort

The historic Mughal-era Red Fort (Lal Qila), which is currently hosting the UNESCO delegates, has become the main hub of the celebratory lighting. Its massive sandstone walls are lit up with a grand display, symbolizing the global recognition of the festival’s deep cultural and spiritual significance. The event is a unique opportunity for delegates from around the world to witness the true spirit of Diwali firsthand, even outside of its usual October/November timing.

Chandni Chowk Sparkles with Joy

In nearby Chandni Chowk, the historic market’s bustling atmosphere has taken on an even more festive air. While the main market activity usually revolves around Diwali shopping in the weeks leading up to the traditional festival, today the newly redeveloped lanes are decorated with special lights and colorful arrangements. This area, which is the heart of Old Delhi and a key part of the city’s heritage, adds an authentic local flavour to the official celebration. Reports also suggest limited, controlled fireworks displays and the creation of elaborate rangolis (traditional floor patterns) to capture the true festive spirit.

Why the Celebration Today?

The reason for this special, mid-December celebration is the landmark announcement by the UNESCO committee. India had submitted a proposal to include Deepavali in the prestigious Intangible Cultural Heritage list. The official confirmation, which was expected during the committee meeting being held in Delhi from December 8 to 13, has been met with nationwide joy.

The festival of lights, which signifies the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, now joins other Indian traditions like Yoga and Durga Puja on the global list. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat have hailed the inscription as a historic milestone that will further contribute to the festival’s global recognition and ensure its preservation.

In essence, today’s dazzling display across Delhi—from the walls of the Red Fort to the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk—is not just a festival; it is a profound expression of national pride and a warm, glowing welcome to the world, marking a moment when one of India’s most beloved traditions officially earned its place on the global stage.