Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in the world. It is a significant Hindu festival that marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. As per Hindu Panchang, Diwali is observed on the Amavasya Tithi of Kartik Month. This year the festival of lights falls on November 12. While its roots are in India, Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm in various other parts of the world as well, transcending all cultural and religious boundaries. Let’s dig deeper to explore how Diwali is celebrated worldwide.
India
Diwali is a traditional festival among the Hindus in India, and it is celebrated with immense fervour and joy. People begin their preparations weeks in advance, cleaning and decorating their homes. On the day of Diwali, people light oil lamps and diyas, burst fireworks, and exchange gifts and sweets with family and friends. It’s a time for families to come together, perform special prayers, and visit temples to seek blessings and guidance from the Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi.
Nepal
In Nepal, Diwali is known as Tihar or Deepawali. The festival lasts for five days, with each day dedicated to honouring different animals such as crows, dogs, cows, and oxen. It is a unique celebration that highlights the bond between humans and animals. The final day, Bhai Dooj or Bhai Tika, is particularly significant, as it emphasises the love and affection between brothers and sisters.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lankan Hindus celebrate Diwali with traditional oil lamps and fervent prayers. Families light up their homes with diyas and visit temples to seek divine blessings. Diwali in Sri Lanka is a time for religious reflection and unity among the community.
Singapore and Malaysia
Diwali is a public holiday in both Singapore and Malaysia, where a significant Indian diaspora resides. The streets come alive with colourful decorations, including intricate rangoli designs. The celebrations also include cultural performances, traditional Indian cuisine, and a festive atmosphere that spreads joy throughout the region.
The United Kingdom
Diwali is celebrated by the British Indian community with great enthusiasm. The city of Leicester is known for hosting one of the largest Diwali celebrations outside of India. The highlight is a grand procession through the city center, featuring traditional music and dance performances, and a spectacular display of lights that illuminates the city.
United States and Canada
In North America, Diwali is celebrated by Indian communities and is gaining recognition and popularity. Major cities host Diwali events with vibrant decorations, dance performances, food stalls serving authentic Indian dishes, and colourful firework displays. Even the White House has been known to host Diwali celebrations, underscoring its significance.
Australia
Diwali is celebrated by the Indian community in Australia, with cities like Sydney and Melbourne hosting public events. The celebrations include elaborate decorations, dance performances, traditional Indian dishes, and various cultural activities that bring the community together to celebrate the festival of lights.
Trinidad and Tobago
In this Caribbean nation, Diwali is celebrated by the Indo-Trinidadian and Tobagonian community. The festival includes the lighting of diyas, decorating homes with colourful rangoli, and the preparation of traditional sweets. It is a time for families and friends to come together and celebrate their cultural heritage.
South Africa
The Indian community in South Africa marks Diwali with great enthusiasm. Diwali celebrations in Durban, a city with a significant Indian population, are particularly grand. The festival is celebrated with prayers, cultural events, and the lighting of oil lamps, creating a warm and vibrant atmosphere that reflects the rich Indian heritage in the country.
Diwali, the festival of lights, transcends borders and brings together people from different cultures and backgrounds. It is a time of joy, unity, and the triumph of good over evil. The way Diwali is celebrated worldwide reflects the diversity and inclusivity of this beautiful festival, making it a shining example of cultural harmony.
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