Diwali is great in India, but there are other places around the world too that celebrate it with as much fervour
Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated every year in the month of October. It is a festival that commemorates the homecoming of prince Ram after 14 years of exile, and his victory over the demon king Ravana. It is the most important festival in Hinduism, but is also celebrated by followers of Jainism and Sikhism. Known as the Festival of Lights, it is marked by lighting of lamps and bursting of fire crackers.
Households celebrating Diwali are cleaned, decorated and brightly lit for the occasion. It is a time when traditional sweets are brought/exchanged, new clothes are worn and people go out to meet their relatives. Here are some of the other countries that indulge in the Diwali festivities.
Australia
Australia is home to a large number of Indians, so it should come as no surprise that Diwali is celebrated with much pomp and fanfare over there. Major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne are venues for large scale events and fairs. These events consist of stalls loaded with sweets and delicacies, traditional dance shows, grand fireworks and live entertainment. The Diwali celebration at Federation Square in Melbourne is the largest of its kind in Australia and a not-to-be-missed sight.
Mauritius
Known primarily for its white sandy beaches and azure blue waters, the multi-cultural island is also a great place to visit during Diwali. The island nation has a large number of Hindus, who celebrate the festival harmoniously with other sects. Diwali is a public holiday here and festivities can span an entire week! Special sweets are prepared and earthen lamps are lit all over the island, turning it into a sight to behold during the night.
Malaysia
Only 8% of the population belong to the Hindu community, with Islam being the official religion of the country. But being the multi-religious society that it is, Diwali (or Hari Diwali as it known there) is observed as a public holiday in the country. Celebrations abound with devotes lining up at temples that are beautifully decorated with flowers and oil lamps. Kuala Lumpur witnesses parades and concerts too, with Indian restaurants dishing out Diwali specials.
Britain
Indians form the second largest ethnic minority in Britain. Not only that, the Diwali celebrations are not limited only to Indians over here as other cultures also partake in the festivities. More notably, the House of Commons also observes this festival, imparting a special significance to it. London, Leicester, Birmingham and Manchester: all join in the festivities. Apart from the customary sweets, fire crackers and earthen lamps, there are light lanterns lit as a tribute to the goddess Lakshmi.
So, planning on celebrating Diwali overseas this year? If yes, then don’t leave home without travel insurance as it secures you against the odds that may arise during a foreign trip. Buy one, and enjoy Diwali to the fullest with an international twist!
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