The Capital is preparing for a grand cultural showcase as the Central government gears up to host a special Diwali celebration on December 10, aligning it with India’s push to have the festival included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) list.
The timing coincides with Delhi hosting the 20th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for Intangible Cultural Heritage, a six-day global gathering underway from December 8 to 13. With international delegates already in Delhi, the government is treating the moment as an opportunity to highlight Diwali as another central piece of India’s cultural identity.
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The Red Fort has been finalised as the main venue, where top dignitaries and global representatives will witness cultural performances, the ceremonial lighting of diyas, and specially curated exhibitions showcasing traditional arts linked to the festival. To match the festive scale, the Delhi government has been instructed to illuminate key buildings, put up decorative lighting, place diyas across public spaces, and organise cultural programmes in different districts, turning the Capital into a full Diwali canvas.
Delhi’s Cultural Minister Kapil Mishra, speaking to NDTV, confirmed that the city will hold its own coordinated celebrations. “Tomorrow, the Delhi government will celebrate Diwali at Dilli Haat. The entire Cabinet will be present. All government buildings will be decorated, diyas will be lit at the Red Fort, and Diwali markets will be set up across the city,” he said.
Delhi turns into a festive canvas
Preparations are already visible. On Tuesday evening, the Delhi Secretariat lit up in vibrant festive colours, like orange, white, and green lights wrapped across the facade, with golden illumination tracing the roofline. Decorative LEDs lined the entrance as officials worked late to create the visual backdrop for the UNESCO events.
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The minister noted that the December 10 showcase is designed as a cultural pitch, aiming to position Diwali as a global symbol of harmony, light, and heritage while strengthening India’s case for its inclusion in UNESCO’s list.
The Delhi government has also urged citizens to participate in celebrations across the city, encouraging people to join in with a spirit of unity and cultural pride as the Capital prepares for the global spotlight.
