By Yassine Mannan
Video: In the ancient setting of the Kasbah of Chellah, the Diwali celebration took on a highly symbolic dimension this Wednesday. India, through its Ambassador to Rabat, Mr. Sanjay Rana, seized the opportunity of these festivities to warmly congratulate Morocco on the inscription of the Caftan on UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This historic recognition, coinciding with the Indian festival of lights, seals an exceptional cultural synergy between Rabat and New Delhi.
It was under the banner of twofold celebration that the Indian ambassador to Morocco opened his address, praising an evening where cultural diplomacy shone brightly. Speaking before a distinguished audience, the diplomat emphasized the historic significance of the day, marked by a decision from the UN body that further cements the rapprochement between the two nations.
The Indian Ambassador to Morocco, Sanjay Rana, emphasized the significance of the moment: the inscription of the Caftan, a jewel of the Kingdom's attire, was formalized during the meeting of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee held that very day in New Delhi, under the Indian presidency."Today is a day of double joy," declared the head of the diplomatic mission, highlighting this fortunate coincidence that sees Morocco and India simultaneously gaining access to the prestigious list of intangible cultural heritage. For Indian diplomacy, this recognition is seen as a source of shared pride."It is another source of delight for India, as the Festival of Lights also joins the pantheon of universal heritage," he added. This cultural synchronicity is interpreted as a reflection of the excellence of bilateral relations, with the Ambassador describing this event as a new strength, an additional bridge thrown between our respective civilizations.
Against the backdrop of this diplomatic announcement, the magic of Diwali (or Deepavali) worked its spell, recalling the spiritual richness of India. This millennia-old celebration, shared by Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities, transcends mere ritual to symbolize, according to Indian cosmology, the victory of light over darkness and of virtue over vice.
The Kasbah of Chellah was illuminated by the symbolism of the diyas, those millions of traditional oil lamps, accompanied by the art of rangoli (decorative patterns on the floor) and fireworks. This fervor, dedicated to the worship of the deities Lakshmi, embodying prosperity, and Ganesha, the figure of wisdom, marked for many the arrival of a new Hindu year under the auspices of sharing and exchange.
