UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List 2025: A Celebration of Global Traditions

Understanding UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List

The world is rich in traditions, skills, and practices that are passed down through generations. These cultural expressions illustrate how communities celebrate life, share knowledge, and maintain connections to their roots. Every year, UNESCO highlights and protects these vital traditions, showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of our planet. The 2025 list brings together unique customs from various countries, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation.

What is UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List?

UNESCO defines cultural heritage beyond just buildings or historic sites. It encompasses traditions, artistic expressions, rituals, festive events, and skills that individuals continue to practice daily. These living traditions are crucial for preserving diversity in a rapidly changing world and fostering respect and understanding among different communities.

Why is Intangible Cultural Heritage Important?

Intangible cultural heritage is both traditional and contemporary. It evolves with communities and reflects their identities. Such practices unite people, transmit values, and strengthen social ties. Protecting these heritages ensures that future generations can learn from and celebrate their cultural backgrounds.

India's Entries on the UNESCO List

In 2025, Deepavali, the vibrant festival of lights, was added to the UNESCO list as a significant Indian tradition. India boasts several other entries, including Durga Puja of Kolkata, Kumbh Mela, Ladakh's Buddhist chanting, Kalbelia dance from Rajasthan, Chhau dance, and Vedic chanting. These traditions highlight India's profound cultural roots and diversity.

List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity 2025

Alongside Deepavali, UNESCO recognized various cultural elements from around the world in 2025. Each entry reflects the unique history, lifestyle, and creativity of its community. Here’s the complete list:

• 1. Amateur theatre acting in Czechia - Czechia
• 2. Bagpipes and bagpipe playing: skills and transmission - Bulgaria
• 3. Behzad’s miniature art style - Afghanistan
• 4. Bisht (men’s Abaa): making skills and traditions - Qatar, Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Syria, UAE
• 5. Brussels’ rod marionette tradition - Belgium
• 6. Christmas Bram and Sambai - Belize
• 7. Commandaria wine - Cyprus
• 8. Cuarteto music, dance and lyrics - Argentina
• 9. Deepavali - India
• 10. Family tradition circus - Chile
• 11. Festivity of the Virgen of Guadalupe - Bolivia
• 12. Gifaataa, Wolaita New Year festival - Ethiopia
• 13. Guruna, pastoral and artistic retreats - Chad, Cameroon
• 14. Hadrami Dan gathering - Yemen
• 15. Joropo - Venezuela
• 16. Koshary: daily dish and associated practices - Egypt
• 17. Mvet Oyeng musical art - Gabon, Cameroon, Congo
• 18. Confraternity of flowers and palms - El Salvador
• 19. Practice of Cuban Son - Cuba
• 20. Zaffa in traditional wedding - Djibouti, Comoros, UAE, Iraq, Jordan, Mauritania, Somalia
• 21. Traditional saree weaving art of Tangail - Bangladesh

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the significance of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List?
Answer: The list recognizes and protects cultural traditions, promoting their preservation and respect among communities worldwide. It highlights the importance of cultural diversity and heritage.

Q2. Which Indian tradition was added to the UNESCO list in 2025?
Answer: Deepavali, the vibrant festival of lights, was recognized in 2025, showcasing India's rich cultural heritage and diversity.

Q3. Why is intangible cultural heritage important for communities?
Answer: It fosters community identity, strengthens social bonds, and helps pass on values to future generations, ensuring cultural practices continue to thrive.

Q4. How does UNESCO select traditions for its heritage list?
Answer: UNESCO evaluates nominations based on cultural significance, community involvement, and the tradition's role in promoting cultural diversity and understanding.

Q5. Can intangible cultural heritage evolve over time?
Answer: Yes, intangible cultural heritage is dynamic, adapting to changes while maintaining its core identity and values, reflecting the evolving nature of communities.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What does UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List aim to preserve?
A) Architectural structures
B) Traditional customs and practices
C) Historical documents
D) Natural landscapes
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which festival was added to the UNESCO list in 2025?
A) Durga Puja
B) Kumbh Mela
C) Deepavali
D) Baisakhi
Correct Answer: C