Lighting up the world

Here’s a peek into Diwali celebrations across the globe

We can safely say that Diwali is the biggest and the most widely celebrated festival not just in India, but across the world. Though every region has its own way of rejoicing, the process of celebrations is pretty much the same everywhere. The word fireworks is synonymous with Diwali. However, it is not the case with many Indians who live abroad. For them, Diwali is a way of remembering their homeland. DC talks to people in different countries to hear about how the festival of lights is celebrated in foreign lands.

California, USA This Diwali is special for Indians in America since the country’s postal service has unveiled a new stamp for the festival. The stamp has the picture of the traditional oil lamp in a sparkling golden background. This has been one of the long-standing demands of the Indians there.

Kashyab Rengasamy, a software engineer from California says, “Yes. The stamp was a good gesture. But we also hear that it should be sold in a large number or else it might get stopped. I am not sure of the authenticity of the news."

Speaking further about the Diwali celebrations there, he says, “You can’t burst crackers in all the cities; there are very few places where you can. It is banned in my locality, so we basically make sweets (though not strictly followed). ”

Singapore It is a public holiday in Singapore. But, sadly, there is a complete ban on fireworks in the country. In places like Little India, where there is a huge Indian population, the festival is celebrated with cultural events. “There are loads of decorations in places where a significant Indian population is based. TV channels play many Diwali specials. However, it is just another holiday for the natives. For Indians here, it is considered as a ‘new year’ since Malays and Muslims celebrate Hari Raya; and the Chinese have their own new year,” says Yokesh Babu, an engineer in Singapore.

Las Vegas, USA Vasanth, a software engineer in Las Vegas, who writes programs for machines in casinos, has relatively more fun on Diwali. In fact, the celebrations have already begun there.

“We have an organisation called ‘Las Vegas Tamil Sangam’. They arranged for a get-together yesterday. Games and competitions like tug-of-war and races were conducted for the kids. We also set up a barbecue party. This happens almost every year. We have a great time,” he grins.

Manchester, UK The Diwali celebrations in United Kingdom are akin to the celebrations back home. Anandh Raja, an entrepreneur based in Manchester, says, “Looking at all the fireworks sold during this period, one might think London celebrates Diwali like Indians. But in reality, it is because our festival and Bonfire Night, which is a grand festival here, falls on the first week of November. So, the whole place will be in a festive mood.”

“There is no restriction on bursting crackers here on Diwali. Throughout the day you can burst fireworks on the lawn or terrace. But most of the time people work on Diwali, so we usually celebrate it during the weekend.”

“We have even had grand events like Diwali Mela, where art and cultural programmes take place. Many dancers and performers exhibit their talent on that day,”Anandh quips.

Dhaka, Bangladesh Sri Ram, who works in a reputed textiles industry in Dhaka, says, “There is a substantial population of Hindus here, but Diwali is not celebrated as much as Durga Pooja. So, we use the day for a casual dinner of sorts. Friends and families get together and cook some delicacies. It is not that grand. Many working professionals fly back to India to be with family.”