In India, Diwali is one of the biggest festivals that is celebrated with immense enthusiasm all across the country. But were you aware that India is not the only nation that celebrates the festival of lights?
Despite being an Indian festival, Diwali is widely celebrated in other parts of the world too. Whether it sounds believable or not, the festival of lights is celebrated with the same enthusiasm in other countries as well. Read on to find out about seven nations other than India that celebrates this festival every year.
Fiji
Due to the presence of a massive Indian population in the country, people in Fiji celebrate Diwali with immense glory and pomp. It is also treated as a public holiday, and the locals engage in organizing parties and exchanging gifts.
Indonesia
In Indonesia, pretty much all the rituals associated with Diwali are performed just how it happens in India. Since it is a public holiday, the locals get time to meet and greet people and celebrate the festival to the fullest.
Mauritius
The Hindu community constitutes nearly 50 percent of the population of Mauritius; hence, Diwali is celebrated with immense excitement and fervor here. People celebrate by placing clay oil lamps around their houses, and the stunning island nation transforms into a fairyland.
Malaysia
In Malaysia, Diwali is called ‘Hari Diwali’ and the rituals slightly differ from that of India. People begin their day by bathing in oil, followed by offering prayers at temples. Since crackers are banned in the country (which is incredible), the people celebrate by exchanging sweets, good wishes, and gifts.
Sri Lanka
In Sri Lanka, Diwali is celebrated for five days, just like in India. It is prominently celebrated by the people belonging to the Hindu Tamilian communities. The celebrations include the lighting of oil lamps and the distribution of sweets and fireworks.
Nepal
Diwali in Nepal is called ‘Tihar’ and is celebrated for five days. During this festival, animals are worshipped by people alongside gods. Every year, on the second day of the festival, the people celebrate ‘Kukur Tihar’ by worshipping dogs - man's favorite four-legged companion.
Singapore
If you have to think of one place apart from India where you can experience Diwali fever at its peak, it has to be 'Little India' in Singapore. The extensive decorations, vivid rangolis, and the pompous feel of the festivities are truly a spectacle.
So this Diwali, celebrate the festival away from home in one of these countries and surprise yourself with the cultural similarities.
