Raj Sadosh/Abohar.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Houston hosted a special gathering to mark a historic milestone: the inclusion of Deepavali in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Hosted alongside the Consul General of India, Houston, the celebration had notable guests including the Mayor of Missouri City, Robin Elackatt, and the Mayor of Stafford, Ken Matthews, reflecting the strong local support for the Mandir’s cultural initiatives.
Guests were welcomed into the serene atmosphere of the Mandir. More than a celebration, it was a reaffirmation of the enduring power of culture to bridge communities. As Deepavali now takes its place on the global stage through UNESCO, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Houston remains committed to preserving these traditions and fostering a spirit of unity and service in the wider community.
The judiciary was also well-represented, with Judge Juli Matthew and Judge Surendran Patel in attendance, underscoring the deep integration of the Indian diaspora into the fabric of American civic life.
A key highlight of the evening was the commemoration of Deepavali’s new status as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The Consul General of India, Houston, reflected on the significance of this designation. It is not merely a recognition of a festival, but a global acknowledgement of the values Deepavali represents — the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.