Just like India, these countries have declared Diwali as a public holiday to create a celebratory atmosphere!
Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most popular festivals in India and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy across the country. But the cultural significance of this festival is not limited to India and resonates around the world. Today, the Festival of Lights is celebrated with great enthusiasm in several other countries across the globe. These countries, with their large populations and rich cultures, make Diwali an integral part of their celebrations, making it a truly international holiday with local traditions! For those who want to celebrate Diwali in a different way, this is the perfect opportunity to travel to these countries and enjoy all the festive fun. Join us as we explore countries beyond India where Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm and energy.
Singapore
This multicultural country celebrates Diwali as a public holiday. The Indian community living in the country organizes various cultural events, including dance performances, concerts and food festivals. Singapore’s Little India district transforms into a hub of activity during Diwali, with colorful decorations, festive lights and bustling markets.
Malaysia
Malaysia has a large Hindu population and they celebrate Diwali aka Deepavali with great spirit. The festival is a public holiday there and people decorate their houses with lights and rangolis during the festival. The streets of Kuala Lumpur and other cities in Malaysia are filled with the sound of firecrackers and the aroma of delicious food. Hindu temples in Malaysia are beautifully decorated and special prayers are performed to seek blessings of prosperity and happiness.
Mauritius
Diwali is one of the biggest celebrations for the island’s Indo-Mauritian community. Diwali is declared a public holiday and the entire country is decorated with lights. People gather to greet each other, share sweets and participate in cultural activities. The festive atmosphere of this island makes Diwali a truly unforgettable occasion in a tropical paradise.
Nepal
In Nepal, Diwali is called Tihar. It is a five-day festival that is a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions. The festival is dedicated to worshiping various deities including Yama (god of death), Lakshmi (goddess of wealth) and Kali (goddess of strength). The streets of Kathmandu and other cities in Nepal are illuminated with colorful lights as people exchange gifts and sweets.
Fiji
Diwali in Fiji is a time for family gatherings, cultural performances and the exchange of gifts. The festival is celebrated with great pageantry and performances and people decorate their homes with colorful lights and rangolis. The streets of Suva and other Fijian cities are filled with the sound of firecrackers and the aroma of traditional sweets.
Sri Lanka
Our neighboring country has a large Hindu community, especially the Tamil community, who celebrate Diwali with great enthusiasm. The festival is marked by the lighting of lamps, the exchange of gifts and the performance of traditional dances and music. Hindu temples in Sri Lanka are beautifully decorated and special prayers are performed.
