10 Countries Besides India Where Diwali is Celebrated

Here’s a look at ten countries outside of India where Diwali is celebrated in unique and meaningful ways:

In Nepal, Diwali is known as “Tihar” or “Swanti,” a five-day celebration with distinct rituals, including honoring animals such as cows, dogs, and crows, which represent prosperity, loyalty, and messenger qualities.

For the Tamil Hindu community in Sri Lanka, Diwali is a cherished holiday marked with rituals like lighting oil lamps and setting off fireworks.

Diwali in Fiji is recognized as a public holiday, celebrated by the Indo-Fijian community and embraced across the island nation.

In the UK, Diwali is celebrated on a grand scale, especially in cities with significant Indian communities like Leicester and London.

Known as “Hari Diwali,” this festival is a public holiday in Malaysia. The Malaysian Indian community celebrates by visiting temples, lighting lamps, and creating intricate rangoli designs at home.

In Singapore, Little India becomes the center of Diwali celebrations, with streets adorned in lights, festive markets, and cultural performances.

Canada, with its vibrant Indian community, celebrates Diwali in cities like Toronto and Vancouver with large-scale events.

With its large Indian-origin population, Diwali in Mauritius is celebrated as a public holiday.

In New Zealand, Diwali has gained popularity and is celebrated in major cities like Auckland and Wellington.

In Trinidad and Tobago, Diwali is one of the most celebrated festivals, especially among the Indo-Caribbean community.