Many other countries across the world celebrate Diwali - just like us. The names may vary; however, the core spirit remains the same everywhere.
Finally, it's that time of the year again. Well, Diwali is almost here, and we simply cannot keep calm! You know, the joy of homecoming, the excitement of shopping with friends and families, the thrill of planning outfits and get-togethers, and so much more. This is the one festival that we can never get enough of, no matter how old we grow and where we are.
Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is one of the most extravagant festivals in India. However, that doesn’t mean the festival is limited within the borders of India! Several other countries across the world celebrate it just like us. From those spectacular light shows to the vibrant public gatherings to the sumptuous feasts and more - the celebrations remain the same everywhere, although the names may vary.
In this article, let's have a look at some of those countries.
Singapore is home to a huge Indian population, and hence it's no surprise that Diwali is celebrated here with the same enthusiasm. Especially in the region called Little India, every street comes alive with lights and decorations, not to mention the crowd. There are special prayers performed in the temples, while devotees light earthen lamps and sing devotional songs. The local markets buzz with visitors shopping for a wide range of items, especially traditional attires. Moreover, the local communities organize various music and dance performances.
Meanwhile this is how “Little India” is celebrating Diwali 🪔 this year on a little island nation a few thousand kms from India. #Singapore #Diwali2023 pic.twitter.com/MtLC0zQwO4
— Dr. Rahul Baxi (@baxirahul) October 31, 2023
Credit: Dr. Rahul Baxi
Yes, Diwali is also celebrated in our neighboring county Nepal, but in the name of Tihar. It's a five-day festival where people in Nepal perform various customs and rituals. The most important part of the celebration takes place on the third day, where the victory and return of Lord Rama are celebrated as per traditions. And on the fourth day, Lord Yama, the God of death, is worshipped. Also, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera, and Lord Ganesha are worshipped here.
People in Nepal celebrate 'Kukkur Tihar' as a part of their 5-day long #Diwali celebrations. Visuals from Kathmandu. pic.twitter.com/V944usyVg6
— ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2018
Credit: ANI
Also known as Hari Deepavali, Diwali is a public holiday in Malaysia. The festival spreads over several days and is celebrated with remarkable fervor (especially among the Indian community). The preparations for the same begin many days prior, with beautiful lighting and decorations all around. All the houses are adorned with colorful rangolis and oil lamps, while the temples are decorated with flowers. People come together and celebrate it through feasts, cultural performances, and shopping.
Cities like New York, San Francisco, Houston, Texas, Chicago, and California are the epicenters of Diwali celebrations in the US. The festival of light is celebrated throughout the night here, making the cities look straight out of a fairytale. A major part of the celebration is cultural events where locals perform everything from songs to dances to recitations. Also, there are food festivals, artwork exhibitions, and obviously, fireworksdisplay that one can simply not get enough of. And not just Indians, other communities also take part in the festival with equal enthusiasm.
The list obviously doesn't end here. Besides the above-mentioned countries, it also includes Thailand, Sri Lanka, Canada, Guana, Indonesia, and the United Kingdom among others.
