Mumbai: Diwali is the festival of lights. This year the festival will be celebrated on October 31. Diwali is the festival which is not only celebrated in India only but other countries of the world also.
While the UK and the US are two other countries where Diwali is celebrated on a large scale thanks to the presence of a large Indian population, Besides these, here are several other countries that also celebrate Diwali with almost as much enthusiasm as India.
Indonesia
Even though the Hindu population in Indonesia is barely a few thousand in number, Diwali here is celebrated with much fanfare.
Malaysia
Diwali, also known as Hari Diwali in Malaysia, is celebrated almost all over the county. The festival begins with the traditional ritual of bathing in oil before dawn, following which prayers are said and visits are made to temples.
Fiji
Just as in India, Fiji celebrates Diwali with enormous zeal. People shop new clothes, exchange gifts and sweets with their loved ones, clean their houses and beautify their homes with numerous decorations and lights.
Nepal
Diwali, known as Tihar in Nepal, is celebrated to honor Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and Ganesha, the lord of new beginnings. The festivities in Nepal last for five days and each day has its very own significance.
Also Read: Diwali 2024: Know why Diwali is celebrated 20 days after Dussehra
Guyana
The Republic of Guyana in South America celebrates Diwali as per the Hindu calendar and also observers a national holiday.
Sri Lanka
Diwali, popularly known as Deepawali in Sri Lanka, is perhaps one of the most widely celebrated festivals of the place. Associated to the epic Ramayana, Sri Lanka celebrates the festival for five whole days by the Hindu Tamilians scattered across the island.
Thailand
Diwali in Thailand is celebrated under the name of Loi Krathong which means, ‘to float a basket’ and is observed on the full moon day of the 12th month according to the Thai calendar. A sensational display of fireworks take place across the country, hot air balloons made of rice paper are released in the sky and lamps made of banana leaves and candles are set afloat in almost all bodies.
Mauritius
The Hindu community comprises of almost 50 percent of Mauritius’ population. Thus Diwali is celebrated with much excitement. It is a public holiday in lieu of the festival.
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