Diwali Across the World: A Celebration of Light and Unity
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a festival that transcends borders and brings people from diverse cultures and backgrounds together to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. While its roots are in India, Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm in various parts of the world, demonstrating the universality of its message. Let’s take a journey to explore how Diwali is celebrated across the globe:
1. India: Diwali is celebrated with immense fervor among Hindus in India. People prepare for weeks, cleaning and decorating their homes. They light oil lamps, burst fireworks, exchange gifts and sweets, and come together for special prayers.
2. Nepal – Tihar: In Nepal, Diwali is known as Tihar or Deepawali and lasts for five days. Each day is dedicated to honoring different animals, showcasing the bond between humans and animals. Bhai Dooj, the final day, emphasizes sibling love.
3. Sri Lanka: Sri Lankan Hindus celebrate Diwali with traditional oil lamps and fervent prayers, promoting religious reflection and unity in the community.
4. Singapore and Malaysia: Diwali is a public holiday in both countries with a significant Indian diaspora. The streets come alive with colorful decorations, rangoli designs, cultural performances, and traditional Indian cuisine.
5. The United Kingdom: The British Indian community celebrates Diwali with great enthusiasm, with Leicester hosting one of the largest Diwali celebrations outside of India. The city center procession, dance performances, and magnificent light displays are highlights.
6. United States and Canada: Diwali is celebrated by Indian communities in North America, with major cities hosting lively events, including authentic Indian cuisine, colorful decorations, and firework displays. Even the White House joins in the celebrations.
7. Australia: The Indian community in Australia marks Diwali with vibrant public events in cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Festivities include dance performances, cultural activities, and traditional Indian dishes.
8. Trinidad and Tobago: The Indo-Trinidadian and Tobagonian community celebrates Diwali with diya lighting, rangoli decorations, and the preparation of traditional sweets, fostering cultural heritage.
9. South Africa: The Indian community in South Africa celebrates Diwali with enthusiasm. Diwali celebrations in Durban, a city with a significant Indian population, are particularly grand, reflecting the rich Indian heritage in the country.
Diwali, the festival of lights, serves as a glowing example of cultural harmony, uniting people from different parts of the world in the spirit of joy and togetherness.
