Diwali is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in India. Nonetheless, its impact stretches miles and miles past the Indian continent. Diwali is no longer limited to India; it has become an international festival with many people of Indian origin scattered all over the globe who celebrate this event together thus promoting cohesiveness in diversified society but above all, projecting India’s image to all corners of the earth. This article looks into the worldwide influence of the Hindu festival of light known as Diwali and its ability to be used as a tool in solidifying the collective identity among the scattered Indian population throughout the world.
Diwali, a Hindu five day festival symbolising the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. In India, it is marked with great passion and zeal, as well as among Indias all over the world. There is usually burning of diyas, drawing of kolams in different hues, exchange of presents, preparation of traditional sweet snacks, and bursting flames in the sky.
In India, this day is observed as a national holiday, where family members reunite with each other to have fun and bring closure among themselves. Lighting up lamps does not symbolise merely shedding of darkness, but also it portrays the internal light that dwells in each person. On this occasion, people observe prayers, religious rituals and pay pilgrimage to the temples. The festival is embedded in Indian culture and is meaningful to different locations, groups, and religions.
Majority of Indians have moved into countries such as USA, Canada, Britain, Australia, UAE, among many other territories. Even after leaving India they are still proud of being Indians as most still celebrate Diwali and enrich the cultural mosaic of their host countries.
Having traversed boundaries and cultures, nowadays, we have a worldwide festival Diwali which brings together Indians abroad and offers to non-Indian society some of our culture.
Indian communities abroad mark Diwali with great enthusiasm. They put on decorations at home, light the lamps, conduct various events of culture and participate in usual traditions.The practice aids in preserving their culture and strengthens togetherness within the community.
Diwali has opened up an interface for interaction between the Indian community and the local ones. Non-Indians take part in Diwali, learn about Indians traditions, and value its meaning. Conversely, they incorporate some portions of their hosts’ cultures into their daily lives.
Educational institutions, museums, and cultural centers have organized activities and exhibitions to educate the people on Indian culture and the Diwali customs. They also promote intercultural understanding and tolerance.
In particular, there are enormous economical impacts when the region consists of high volume of Indians.Consumer demand increases with regard to clothing, jewelry, decorations, and gifts that are purchased in this event. Moreover, many local companies get a boost during this period since it is when people purchase items for use during the period of celebration.
A lot of communities form during occasions like Diwali within the Indian diaspora. Despite people’s diverse backgrounds, they still meet and celebrate.
The manner in which Diwali is observed differs across countries and is also subjected to variation between Indians residing within a particular country. Although nature stays constant, there are variations in traditions, cultural habits, and local elements.
However, global scope of Diwali exceeds neighborhoods gatherings. Government and world bodies have acknowledged this festival. Notable examples include:
In 2019, the UN proclaimed 3oth of October to be international diwali day. This marks the global theme for Diwali, which is triumphing in light prevailing over darkness and spreading peace on earth.
Colorful lights and patterns have also brightened up renowned landmark buildings like the Empire State Building in New York City and the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.
In many political settings, like in different countries, some of the senior government officials or even presidents, send congratulatory messages and take part in celebration activities as part of welcoming this holiday.
The role played by India diaspora is important in conservation and spread of Indian cultures globally. One of their efforts toward this pursuit includes celebrating Diwali. In addition, people of indian origin have been successful in business, technology, politics and the arts, and contributed immensely to nations where they reside.
Diwali is also known as the festival of new hopes. As a world event, it is also a chance of meeting other people with varied cultural backgrounds. In this context, light triumphs over darkness while unity conquers division.
The international appeal of diwali showcases its distinct capacity to bridge the Indian diaspora with the larger world beyond geographic borders. Diwali, which is an avenue through which Indians globally can embrace the need to be the change they seek in the world as well as embrace the principles of light, unity and culture; leading to a shared sense of hope.
Diwali is more than a festival; it’s a global beacon of light and togetherness