The Indian festival of lights, Diwali, has been added to UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage list, sparking celebrations across India and globally. This announcement was made during a UNESCO meeting held in New Delhi, India.

• Diwali is celebrated by millions of Indians, including Sikh and Jain communities, as a five-day festival symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
• The United Nations cultural agency UNESCO is examining dozens of nominations from as many as 78 countries.
• The Delhi government is organizing various events, including special illumination of buildings and a massive lamp-lighting ceremony, to mark the occasion.