India’s biggest festival, Diwali, shines far beyond its borders, celebrated with similar fervor in various countries. While the festival is deeply rooted in Indian traditions, Diwali has become a universal symbol of light and joy, bringing communities together worldwide.
Diwali Across Asia
In Malaysia, where Diwali is celebrated as a public holiday, it is known as “Hari Diwali” or “Green Diwali.” Due to restrictions on fireworks, Malaysians celebrate with the traditional lighting of diyas and oil lamps, which fill homes with warm, inviting light. The Hindu community, which makes up about 8% of Malaysia’s population, ensures this festival remains a significant cultural event, despite Islam being the country’s official religion.
Singapore also embraces Diwali in a major way, especially in the bustling region of Little India, where Indian communities gather to mark the occasion. Deepavali, as it is called locally, transforms the area into a festive wonderland of lights and colors. While fireworks are generally avoided, the spirit of the festival is captured through cultural performances, intricate decorations, and prayers.
In Nepal, Diwali is observed as Tihar, a five-day festival celebrating not only gods but also animals. One of the most unique aspects of Tihar is Kukur Tihar or “Day of the Dogs,” where dogs are honored with flowers, vermilion tikka, and treats, symbolizing their loyalty and companionship. The festival holds a special place in the hearts of Nepalese people, reflecting the harmony they share with animals.
On the island of Bali in Indonesia, Diwali is widely observed despite the relatively small Indian population. The Hindu-majority Balinese join in the festivities with rituals that closely mirror those in India, including the lighting of lamps, bursting of firecrackers, and performing traditional prayers.
Diwali in the South Pacific and Africa
In Fiji, Diwali is celebrated as a national holiday, owing to a sizable Hindu population. The island country comes alive with lights, sweets, and gatherings, bringing together people of all communities. The festival is celebrated with as much enthusiasm as in India, reflecting the deep cultural roots of the Indian Fijian community.
Mauritius, where nearly 50% of the population follows Hinduism, transforms into a picturesque landscape during Diwali. Houses adorned with clay lamps and elaborate rangolis light up the island, making it a magical experience. Diwali in Mauritius is not just a festival but a week-long cultural event embraced by the entire nation.
Diwali Celebrations in the West
In the United States, Diwali is growing in prominence, with several states now recognizing it officially. Pennsylvania, for example, has declared Diwali a state holiday, reflecting the cultural diversity embraced across America. Celebrations are hosted in cities with large Indian communities, such as New York, San Francisco, and Houston, with the lighting of lamps, fireworks displays, and cultural performances that draw significant crowds.
In the United Kingdom, cities like Leicester and Birmingham, home to large Indian communities, host grand Diwali celebrations. Streets are adorned with lights, and public Diwali events, featuring fireworks, dance, and music, are attended by thousands. These celebrations have grown in scale over the years, becoming a testament to the deep Indian roots within British society.
Canada sees Diwali celebrated across cities with substantial Indian communities, especially in Toronto, Vancouver, and Brampton. While it isn’t a national holiday, temples and community centers organize festivities, allowing people to celebrate with traditional lights, music, and sweets. Canadians from all backgrounds often join in, highlighting the country’s spirit of inclusivity.
