Diwali Celebration Outside India

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a major celebration that transcends borders and is joyously observed around the globe. While it is rooted in Indian culture and traditions, the Diwali celebration outside India is equally vibrant and colourful. Indian communities worldwide bring their customs to life, lighting up homes, temples, and public spaces with festive lights, diyas, and firecrackers. Countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia, and Australia host grand Diwali celebrations that bring together people of all backgrounds to enjoy the spirit of unity, love, and prosperity. From elaborate Diwali melas in London to the stunning light displays in Singapore, each country adds its own local flavour to the festivities, making the Diwali celebration worldwide a unique experience.

Here is a list of 12 countries that celebrate Diwali celebration across the world:

1. Australia
2. USA
3. Indonesia 
4. Malaysia 
5. Mauritius
6. Nepal 
7. Singapore
8. Sri Lanka 
9. Canada
10. Fiji
11. United Kingdom
12. Thailand 

• Australia

In Australia, Diwali celebrations have grown into a major cultural event, especially in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, where Indian communities thrive. These celebrations feature vibrant public events, dazzling fireworks, and colourful light displays that bring the festival to life. Indian temples and community centres across the country organize special prayers, offering a spiritual element to the festivities. Popular venues such as Melbourne’s Federation Square and Sydney’s Parramatta Park host grand Diwali events, drawing thousands of people from various backgrounds to enjoy food stalls, traditional music, and dance performances. The Diwali celebration around the world reflects the country's rich multicultural fabric, fostering unity and joy as everyone comes together to celebrate the Festival of Lights.

• USA

In the USA, Diwali has become a significant and widely recognized festival, especially in cities like New York, San Francisco, Houston, and Chicago, where large Indian communities reside. The Diwali celebration is marked by grand events featuring cultural performances, traditional Indian food festivals, and vibrant fireworks displays. One of the most iconic Diwali events takes place in Times Square, where thousands gather to enjoy music, dance, and dazzling light shows.

Indian temples and community centres across the country organize special pujas and prayers, allowing families to partake in spiritual rituals. Universities, government buildings, and even major corporations now celebrate Diwali, incorporating it into their annual events. The festival highlights the USA's cultural diversity, bringing together people from various backgrounds to share in the joy and light that Diwali symbolizes.

• Indonesia

In Indonesia, Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm, especially among the Indian diaspora residing in cities like Jakarta, Bali, and Medan. Although Indonesia has a rich cultural history deeply influenced by Hinduism, Diwali is primarily observed by the Indian community. Temples and cultural centres organize vibrant Diwali events, including prayers, traditional Indian music and dance performances, and festive feasts.

In Bali, where Hinduism is the predominant religion, Diwali celebrations blend with local traditions, creating a unique fusion of cultures. Communities gather to light diyas, perform pujas, and enjoy fireworks. The Diwali celebration outside India in Indonesia offers a joyful reminder of the shared cultural heritage between the two nations, fostering a sense of unity and celebration among the Indian community and locals alike.

Where to stay in Bali, Indonesia:

Ayodya Resort Bali in Indonesia, by Club Mahindra is a beautiful beachfront resort in Bali, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Located in the heart of Nusa Dua, this resort in Bali is known for its serene ambiance, traditional Balinese architecture, and excellent amenities. It's an ideal destination for travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and cultural experiences in a tropical paradise.

• Malaysia

In Malaysia, Diwali, locally known as Deepavali, is celebrated with immense joy and enthusiasm, especially by the Indian community. The festival is a public holiday, and the streets come alive with vibrant decorations, colourful rangolis, and light displays. Temples across the country hold special prayers and rituals, while homes are lit with oil lamps and filled with the aroma of traditional Indian sweets. In cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang, grand Diwali celebrations include cultural performances, fireworks, and festive markets that bring together people from different communities.

Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: 

For those visiting during Diwali, the PARKROYAL Serviced Suites Kuala Lumpur offers a comfortable stay in the heart of the city. This resort in Kuala Lumpur provides easy access to the vibrant Diwali festivities, making it a great base for travellers looking to explore the local culture while enjoying top-notch facilities. With spacious suites and excellent service, it's an ideal choice for a relaxing and festive getaway.

• Mauritius

In Mauritius, Diwali is a national holiday and one of the most widely celebrated festivals. The island's large Hindu population celebrates the Festival of Lights with devotion and joy. Homes are decorated with colourful rangolis, oil lamps (diyas), and beautiful lights. Families come together to perform prayers, exchange sweets, and light firecrackers. The Diwali celebration spreads across the island, with temples holding special rituals and community gatherings. Diwali in Mauritius reflects the country's rich cultural diversity, as people from various backgrounds join in the festivities, making it a significant and vibrant occasion. In addition to the traditional celebrations, many public spaces and parks are illuminated with dazzling lights, adding to the festive charm of the island. Diwali in Mauritius is not just a religious occasion but a symbol of unity and togetherness, embraced by the entire nation.

• Nepal

In Nepal, Diwali is celebrated as Tihar, a five-day festival that closely resembles the traditional Diwali festivities in India. The Diwali celebration in Nepal is marked by lighting oil lamps, decorating homes with colourful rangolis, and worshiping various deities, including Laxmi, the goddess of wealth. Each day of Tihar has its unique significance, from honouring crows and dogs to the worship of cows, which are considered sacred. The streets are lit with vibrant lights, and families come together to exchange sweets and gifts, making it a joyous occasion filled with devotion and cultural richness. The Diwali celebration in Nepal brings communities together and highlights the country's deep spiritual heritage.

Where to stay in Nepal:

Located near the famous Chitwan National Park, Soaltee Westend Chitwan resort is a serene resort in Nepal offering a perfect blend of comfort and nature. The resort provides spacious rooms, modern amenities, and stunning views of the surrounding greenery. It's an ideal base for exploring the wildlife and beauty of Chitwan while enjoying a peaceful retreat. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, this resort in Chitwan promises a memorable stay with its excellent services and connection to the natural wonders of the region.

• Singapore

In Singapore, Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm, particularly in the vibrant neighbourhood of Little India. The streets are adorned with colourful lights, intricate decorations, and stunning rangolis, creating a festive atmosphere. The Diwali celebration in Singapore includes cultural performances, traditional Indian music, and dance events that bring the community together. Temples hold special prayers and rituals, while families light oil lamps and exchange sweets as part of the celebrations.

One of the most iconic aspects of Diwali in Singapore is the Deepavali Festival Village, where visitors can shop for traditional attire, festive foods, and decorations. The festival reflects Singapore's cultural diversity, with locals and tourists alike joining in the joyous festivities, making it a significant event in the country’s cultural calendar.

• Sri Lanka

In Sri Lanka, Diwali is primarily celebrated by the Tamil Hindu community, particularly in the Northern and Eastern provinces. The Diwali celebration in Sri Lanka involves lighting oil lamps (diyas) to symbolize the victory of light over darkness and the triumph of good over evil. Homes are beautifully decorated with kolams (rangolis), and families gather for prayers, exchange sweets, and prepare special festive meals.

Temples across the country hold special Diwali rituals, attracting worshippers who come together to celebrate this auspicious occasion. The Diwali celebration in Sri Lanka highlights the rich cultural and religious heritage of the Tamil Hindu population, while also being embraced by other communities, promoting unity and harmony during the festival.

Where to stay in Sri Lanka:

The Mount Lavinia Resort in Sri Lanka by Club Mahindra offers a serene beachfront escape with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Located close to Colombo, this resort in Sri Lanka provides modern amenities and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. Guests can enjoy the beautiful surroundings and explore the rich cultural heritage nearby, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation.

• Canada

In Canada, Diwali is widely celebrated, especially in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary, where there are large Indian communities. The Diwali celebration includes vibrant cultural events, community gatherings, and traditional festivities. Homes are decorated with diyas and rangolis, while temples and community centres hold special pujas and prayers. Public celebrations often feature fireworks, music, dance performances, and food festivals that bring people together from all backgrounds to celebrate the Festival of Lights. The Diwali celebration in Canada is a joyful reflection of the country's multiculturalism, fostering a spirit of unity and cultural exchange.

• Fiji

In Fiji, Diwali holds significant importance as one of the most celebrated festivals, especially among the Indo-Fijian community. During the festival, homes are adorned with colourful rangolis, and oil lamps are lit to symbolize the victory of light over darkness. Temples across the country host special prayers, and families come together to prepare traditional sweets and exchange gifts. What makes Diwali celebration in Fiji unique is the way it blends Indian traditions with Fijian hospitality, creating a festive atmosphere that resonates with both locals and visitors. Fireworks displays light up the night sky, and community gatherings bring people together to celebrate the joyous occasion. Diwali in Fiji is a true reflection of the island's rich cultural diversity and harmonious spirit.

• United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, Diwali is a major celebration, particularly in cities like London, Leicester, and Birmingham, where large Indian communities reside. The festival is marked by grand public events, vibrant street parades, and spectacular light displays. Leicester’s Diwali celebrations are among the largest outside of India, with thousands of people gathering on Belgrave Road to enjoy fireworks, music, dance, and cultural performances.

Across the UK, homes are lit with oil lamps, and temples host special prayers and rituals. Communities come together to share traditional sweets and meals, making the festival a time of joy and unity. The diverse and multicultural nature of the UK is reflected in the way Diwali is embraced by people from all backgrounds, making it a key event on the cultural calendar.

• Thailand

In Thailand, Diwali is celebrated with enthusiasm, particularly among the Indian and Hindu communities. Though it is not a national holiday, temples and cultural centres in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai host special prayers, pujas, and community gatherings. The Diwali celebration in Thailand includes lighting oil lamps, decorating homes with rangolis, and exchanging sweets with family and friends. Many parts of Thailand also incorporate local customs, blending Thai culture with Indian traditions. Fireworks displays and festive markets add to the joyful atmosphere, and people from different backgrounds come together to celebrate the festival. Diwali in Thailand reflects the spirit of cultural harmony and brings a touch of Indian festivities to this beautiful Southeast Asian country.

Where to stay in Thailand:

Mac Boutique Bangkok resort by Club Mahindra is a charming resort in Thailand located in the heart of Bangkok’s bustling Sukhumvit district. This boutique resort in Bangkok offers comfortable accommodations with modern amenities, making it an ideal base for exploring the vibrant city. Guests can enjoy easy access to Bangkok's top attractions, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks while experiencing warm hospitality at the resort.

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Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is not just limited to India; it has become a global celebration that resonates across continents. From grand public events to intimate family gatherings, the Diwali celebration outside India is vibrant, colourful, and filled with cultural pride. Indian communities in countries around the world light up their homes and public spaces with oil lamps, colourful rangolis, and fireworks, fostering a spirit of unity and joy. Each country adds its own local flavour to the festivities, blending Indian traditions with local customs. Whether you are traveling abroad or living overseas, the Diwali celebration offers a unique opportunity to connect with the global Indian diaspora, experience rich cultural diversity, and share in the universal message of light triumphing over darkness.