Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma said on Wednesday that the cultural interconnections between India and Bangladesh and deep historical and civilisational bonds will continue to anchor the friendship between the two countries.

“Deepavali is widely celebrated across Bangladesh, often alongside Kali Puja and popularly known as Shyama Puja-Deepanita Mahotsav. These shared traditions reflect the deep historical and civilisational bonds that continue to anchor the friendship between the two countries,” he said while addressing a programme titled “Deepavali Goes Global” at the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC) in the capital.

The event marked the inscription of Deepavali into UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Verma noted that Deepavali, the festival of lights, embodies universal values—the victory of good over evil, the triumph of knowledge over ignorance, and the reaffirmation of hope over despair. “These virtues and values transcend nations, cultures and faiths; they belong to humanity.”

Deepavali was made into the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on 10 December at the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee meeting, currently ongoing at the Red Fort in New Delhi from 7 to 13 December.

Photo: Courtesy
The high commissioner emphasised that UNESCO’s recognition is a moment of pride not only for India but also for millions around the world who celebrate Deepavali in diverse ways.

“As we welcome Deepavali’s global recognition, we celebrate not only a festival but a living heritage that promotes harmony, inclusivity, and unity,” he said.

The event at IGCC included cultural performances, celebrating Deepavali as a tradition that connects people across borders.

It was attended by distinguished guests, including ICCR scholars, alumni of the Bangladesh Youth Delegation, members of the Indian community, and cultural personalities.