When you have the spirit to be a writer, when you do become a passionate writer, you are always digging around for inspiration—that one stroke of genius which provokes a word jumble in your mind like no other, perhaps in some cases, enough to cause a hemorrhage. So there I was, one sunny Sunday, staring at the blank Word document before my sore eyes. Why, you may ask, would I put myself through that sort of self-depreciating exercise? I’ll tell you why: I was looking for inspiration to amaze you with a mind-boggling piece on Diwali!
It was a great lot of staring to be honest, then it moved to gawking, until I could almost kiss the screen, parched lips and all that apart. As dusk approached, the traffic was no more a cacophony than it was a faded musical depicting my mental stated. Then, a BAM! A local kid had launched a rocket into the dulling sky. And as the hues of the firecracker emerged on the navy blue background, a bulb switched on in my comatose brain, as cliché as it may sound. I realized, why would one need inspiration to write about a festival, let alone a festival as grand as Diwali?
Image Source: PTI
A festival of incessant noise and stunning lights, one of sugary treats and cavities—it’s that time of the year again! All I needed was to look around me, at the smiles that ran for miles on people’s faces, at the twinkling eyes of starry-eyed children, observing their handiwork with the fireworks and the rangolis. More so, I had to look beyond the Indians in India, not underestimating their Diwali peculiarities. But in fact, Indians have found a home all around the world, in the farthest of places imaginable. And thus, in my hours of research, I have compiled a list how the Indian diaspora in different countries celebrate this holy day of Lord Ram’s return in the Ramayana!
The United States of America
Naturally, a preferred country amongst a majority of the Indian immigrants, this Western country was bound to show up on the list! Forming the second largest foreign diaspora after China in the country, the Diwali celebrations in the States are gargantuan. The American-Indians have an especially gala time, since the day of Diwali has been declared as a holiday by President Obama. Plus, a cherry on top of the cake is that some of them get to spend time with the First Family as they hold a puja in the White House! Many Governors, past Presidents and other people in authority have been known to regularly share their greetings with the Indians on Diwali. Meanwhile, Hindu Organizations and other groups organize events in light of the festival. Youngsters enjoy bonfires and firecracker fiestas, amongst other frivolities like good food—a given—and dances. Some states have declared Diwali as a state festival! Traffic is maddening and ethnic wear is charming, but most off all, the homesickness is almost forgotten, even if for a couple of days.
Britain
The second largest ethnic minority in the UK, Diwali in the European country is marked by draping the Victorian buildings in lights that cover the entire colour spectrum! As they reflect into the beautiful water of the river Thames, the people indulge in a routine of feverish spring-cleaning and redecorating their homes. The windows are lit by funky lamps and diyas and more surprisingly, some people also leave the doors open during daytime, somehow battling against the November chill with the warmth of the festival. Obviously dressed in finery, the most important part of the festival for British- Indians is the trip to the local temple to worship Goddess Lakshmi. The city of Leicester is largely famous for its Diwali adornments!
France
France has always had a rather special connection with India, be it the exchange of languages, fashion or food. With a vast number of Indian residents in France, there is bound to be a lasting celebration of the Festival of Lights, especially in the City of Lights, Paris! Known as the Fête des Lumires, Diwali mostly involves the exchange of gifts and the preparation of traditional Indian sweets. The French love to spend time with their Indian friends. Most of all, though, the lanterns of innumerous sizes and shapes can be seen all around the country, pleasing the hearts of the Indians and the French alike.
Trinidad and Tobago
With the West Indian flair for festivities, Diwali celebrations form an integral part of society in Trinidad, a most alluring island amongst the Caribbean Islands. Indians form nearly 43% of the population here and the festival is seen as a way to unify all the different religions and classes in the population. Moreover, several Ministers of the Government also participate hands on in the festivities, which last a week. As far as it goes, the country has added its own flavour to the celebrations, which involve an extra few rituals apart from those already in existence. A depiction of the victory of good over evil, Trinidad’s Diwali activities add to its already colourful culture.
South Africa
A country of extravagant flora and fauna, similar to India, South Africa is home to almost a million Indian immigrants. Hence, Diwali is a vital festival. Since the immigrants are largely from Gujurat and Tamil Nadu,, the Deepavali traditions vary in conjunction. Fortunately, this means an amalgamation of Gujurati and Tamilian specialties! Food and Finery, lanterns and styles of rangolis, the choice is so vibrant, to choose one over the other would be to sin!
Nepal
Nepal…life is gorgeous! India’s immediate neighbour, Nepal is greatly in touch with Indian traditions and so, how can the Nepalese miss Diwali? Alive and abuzz at the foothills of the Himalayan ranges, it is the only Hindu Kingdom in the world! Known as Tihar in Nepal, Diwali is celebrated to honour the Goddess of wealth Lakshmi and the God of prosperity Ganesha. Spread over five festive days, each day has its own religious reverence. The first day is dedicated to cows, the second to dogs. The third day is marked by widespread use of lanterns, lamps and firecrackers, celebrated as the day of lights. The fourth day is in honour of Yama, the God of death, where people pray for a long life. Lastly, the fifth day, is dedicated to brothers, wherein sisters pray for protection and health for their beloved brothers. Voilà, a complete fiesta!
Japan
Named the land of the ‘rising sun’, Japan considers Diwali as one of its own festivals, a festival that provides happiness and peace in life. Not surprisingly, it also gives a new angle to the celebrations therein. Strangely but in a way that captures the esse3nce of Diwali, the Japanese Indians believe in venturing into orchards and gardens and decorating the branches with lanterns and other paper hangings! They put on the best of their outfits and go boating into the seas. Cleaning their homes is an important Japanese Deepavali ritual and they are known to put immense effort into decorating not only temples but also Japanese places of worship. The city of Yokohama is famous across the world for its Diwali activities. (This is one truly huge inspiration).
Australia
The continental country, even with its vast heritage, has adopted Diwali as its own. With a 100,00- strong Indian diaspora, the winter festival is celebrated in complete grandeur, especially in Melbourne and Sydney. People set up several carnivals and fairs and musical performances are abound! Indian specialties are bountiful and precise to their origin. After a marvelous firework display, the people, united in their emotions burn the effigy of Ravana, referring to Lord Rama’s triumph over Ravana. Oh, how the good has earned victory throughout the millenia!
Malaysia
The far-eastern country of Malaysia, although inhabited by only 8% of Hindus, has honoured Diwali by making it a public holiday! The rituals in this metropolitan country involve oil baths and floral displays at temples and the fun factor is when the Hindus and other communities come together at parades and concerts. It is celebrated as Hari Diwali, since the bursting of firecrackers is strictly prohibited. It is a quiet but immensely peaceful and serene version of Diwali.
Indonesia
Last but not the least, a popular tourist destination, especially amongst Indians, Indonesia is at par with other countries in celebrating this holy Hindu festival, despite having a majority Muslim population. The highlights are, of course, in its capital Bali. The rituals and traditions are mainly Indian with few Indonesian seasonings. Firecrackers are important boosters of the people’s spirit, burst to ward off evil spirits. Indonesia, the name, originates from two Greek words, ‘Indos’ meaning Indian and ‘Nesos’, meaning islands. No wonder Indians hold Indonesia at a special place in their hearts!
So, that was all around the Diwali world in 3 A4-sized pages! Nevertheless, I assure you, there are tens of other countries joining in on the Diwali spirit with us in these four days. In that light, I wish you a fabulous Diwali and a healthy life ahead, on behalf of the SpectralHues team! Let the festivities begin!
