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Daily Current Affairs: Deepavali Gets UNESCO Tag & Simhastha Kumbh
📅 Date: 13 December 2025 (Saturday)
Welcome to your daily update. Today is a monumental day for Indian culture as Deepavali receives global recognition, and we also look at the astrological significance of the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh.
1. Simhastha Kumbh: The Astrological Connection
The Simhastha Kumbh Mela is a massive Hindu religious festival held every 12 years in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. But have you ever wondered why it is specifically called "Simhastha"?
This specific alignment is what distinguishes the Ujjain Kumbh from the Kumbh Melas held at other locations (Haridwar, Prayagraj, and Nashik).
2. UNESCO Adds Deepavali to Intangible Cultural Heritage List
In a proud moment for India, Deepavali (the festival of lights) has been officially added to UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity.
- The Venue: The announcement was made during the 20th UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee session held at the Red Fort, New Delhi.
- Host: This is the first time India hosted the ICH Committee session, organized by the Ministry of Culture and Sangeet Natak Akademi.
- Significance: UNESCO recognized Deepavali as a "living heritage" that strengthens social bonds, supports traditional craftsmanship, and symbolizes light over darkness.
With the addition of Deepavali, here is a quick revision of India's entries on this prestigious list:
- 2025: Deepavali
- 2023: Garba of Gujarat
- 2021: Durga Puja in Kolkata
- 2017: Kumbh Mela
- 2016: Yoga & Nowruz
- 2014: Thatheras of Jandiala Guru (Utensil making)
- 2013: Sankirtana of Manipur
- 2012: Buddhist chanting of Ladakh
- 2010: Chhau dance, Kalbelia dance, Mudiyettu
- 2009: Ramman festival
- 2008: Kutiyattam, Ramlila, Vedic chanting
3. Birth Anniversary of Pranab Mukherjee
We pay tribute to the 13th President of India, Pranab Mukherjee, remembering his birth anniversary (Born: 11 Dec 1935 in Mirati, West Bengal).
From Teacher to President
- Early Career: Before entering politics in 1969, he was a college teacher and a journalist.
- The Troubleshooter: Known as a seasoned politician, he held key ministries like Finance, Defence, Commerce, and External Affairs.
- Key Roles: He played a pivotal role in the implementation of UIDAI (Aadhaar), Metro Rail projects, and Food Security policies.
- Presidency: Served as President from 2012 to 2017.
Awards: He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan (2008) and later received the Bharat Ratna (2019).
Stay updated! The UNESCO list is a very high-probability topic for upcoming competitive exams. Make sure to memorize the recent additions like Deepavali and Garba.