Countries That Celebrate Diwali Around the World: Complete List

One of the most popular festivals originating from India, Diwali, also known as Deepavali, has many traditions that have been adopted by Indian communities across the globe. Countries such as Mauritius, Malaysia, Australia, Fiji,  United Kingdom and Singapore now have celebrations involving pretty lights, cultural performances, traditional foods and community events.

Whilst there are general themes around Diwali such as light, wealth and good defeating evil, how it is celebrated can depend on your local traditions and beliefs.

Why Diwali is Celebrated Globally

Diwali has become a well-known festival globally due to the Indian diaspora. Over generations, Indian communities have moved across the globe with their festivals, traditions and culture.

Many religions celebrate Diwali, however, how important it is to them depends on their religion. Hindus, Jains and Sikhs celebrate Diwali. Countries with a large number of people from an Indian background have made Diwali into a celebration where those from different backgrounds can come together and enjoy some cultural festivities.

Countries that Celebrate Diwali

Many countries outside of India celebrate Diwali.

Australia

• Many cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane hold big events celebrating Diwali. These events often involve cultural performances, traditional foods, pretty lights and fireworks.
• Local councils and cultural groups will often back public celebrations, meaning people from different communities can enjoy some Indian culture.

Mauritius

• Diwali is an official public holiday in Mauritius. It is celebrated throughout the whole country. A large number of people on the island have an Indian background so Diwali is an important part of their culture.
• Homes are decorated with oil lamps and coloured lights. Families will also share sweets.

Malaysia

• Diwali (also known as Deepavali) is an official gazetted public holiday in Malaysia. Diwali holds great importance to the Indian and Tamil communities within the country.
• Places such as Little India in Kuala Lumpur and Penang will be decorated with coloured lights and traditional art. People will pray, enjoy music and shop for Diwali. They will also enjoy traditional foods.

United Kingdom

• There is a large number of people from an Indian background in the UK. Many cities hold celebrations for Diwali, including Leicester, London and Birmingham.
• Leicester is well known for having big celebrations. The streets will be lit up, there will be cultural performances and public events. This attracts visitors from different communities.

Fiji

• Diwali is a national public holiday in Fiji, where it is widely celebrated by the Indo-Fijian community. The festival reflects the cultural heritage of people of Indian origin who settled in the country over generations.
• Celebrations include lighting diyas, decorating homes, exchanging sweets and organising religious and community events. Suva and Nadi are among the places where festive gatherings take place.