Diwali Celebrations by NRIs: A Global Festival of Lights

Diwali Celebrations by NRIs: A Global Festival of Lights

Monday, October 21, 2024

Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important and widespread festivals celebrated by Indians. To NRIs settled abroad, Diwali offers a chance to reconnect with their roots and share the joy of this festive season with their local communities. Though far away from their motherland, NRIs do not lag behind in celebrating Diwali with enthusiasm and creativity.

Preparations and Decorations
Weeks prior to Diwali, NRIs begin to get their house ready for the occasion by adorning it with traditional decorations such as bright-colored rangoli designs, clay lamps called diyas, and colored lanterns. It is these ornaments and decorations that carry the festive atmosphere right into their homes, besides reminding them of their rich cultural heritage.

Community Celebrations
One of the most impressive things to note about NRIs and Diwali celebrations is that they reach out with the local communities. Friends and neighbors from all different ethnic backgrounds are usually invited thus encouraging culture exchange and understanding. Mass open public celebrations are held in cities such as London and Leicester; the events include Bhangra dancers, vegetarian food stalls, and performances of South Asian classical and modern dance and music.

Religious Observances
The religious aspects of Diwali are also maintained by the NRIs t hrough visits to temples and performing the traditional rituals. Lakshmi and Ganesh are worshipped, asking for good fortunes and health. In cities where fireworks have been banned, such as Dubai, the community gets together for prayers and shares a vegetarian feast, hence maintaining the essence of the festival intact.

Cultural Fusion
Diwali celebrations abroad typically carry some aspect of the local culture, thus making it culturally unique to the host country. For instance, Diwali events in the United States and Canada may include Indian-Western music, dance, and food combinations. This clash of traditions does not only add to the celebration but in many ways allows for intercultural appreciation and understanding.

Challenges and Adaptations
While NRIs try to replicate the Diwali experience as best as possible, there are time zones, job responsibilities, and no extended family to speak of. Thus, the NRIs make do with virtual celebrations-meeting and greeting their loved ones via video calls, or attend functions that allow the members of the Indian diaspora to get together.

Conclusion
Diwali celebration by NRIs is representative of the resolute spirit of Indian culture. The efforts put in by NRIs not only preserve their tradition but also spread the joy and beauty of Diwali to the world. The festivals further create a bond of community, belongingness, and world citizenship, which make Diwali truly an international festival of lights.

Joanna Elsa Sony, 12-F, ICSK Senior

Report:

Joanna Elsa Sony, 12-F, ICSK Senior

Disclaimer: Statements and opinions expressed in the article are those of the authors and written by them; the author is solely responsible for the content in this article. IndiansinKuwait.com does not hold any responsibility for them.

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Esther Thursday, October 31, 2024 Good job joanna👏👏
Vaidehi M Sunil Wednesday, October 30, 2024 Woww Joanna.. This is very informative and detailed 😍👏🏻❤️... Amazinggg work Joanna... Proud of you 🥹🫶🏻... It''s really niceee
Joash sunoj Wednesday, October 30, 2024 Happy diwali 💥
Joshua Sunoj Wednesday, October 30, 2024 Great work...keep it up ! 🙌🏽
Hozefa Ali Tuesday, October 29, 2024 Keep up the good work 👍

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