Diwali, also known as the “Festival of Lights”, is one of the most significant celebrations in the Hindu calendar. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, with roots in mythology such as Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana and Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. It is also a time to worship the Goddess Laxmi, for it is her who blesses devotees with wealth and prosperity.
While the festival began in India, it has grown into a global occasion, celebrated with pomp and splendour in cities across Asia, Europe, North America and the Middle East. Though it is officially going to be celebrated on October 20 and 21, celebrations have already begun across the world.
Singapore
Singapore’s Little India district becomes the focal point of Diwali celebrations each year. The streets come alive with elaborate arches, themed light displays stretching for kilometers and colourful rangolis. Temples such as Sri Veeramakaliamman and Sri Srinivasa Perumal attract thousands of worshippers, while bazaars sell sweets and other wares for visitors. As it is a public holiday, The government supports the festival with official light‑up ceremonies and cultural performances, ensuring that the celebrations are accessible to both residents and tourists. The combination of traditional rituals and a cosmopolitan setting has made Singapore one of the most striking places to experience Diwali outside India.
Toronto, Canada
Toronto, as home to one of the largest South Asian communities in North America always witnesses grand Diwali celebrations; best believe it goes all out with the festivities. One can visit Nathan Phillips Square where public events featuring music, dance and fireworks can be witnessed, while Gerrard India Bazaar becomes a hub of activity with food stalls, rangoli and festive shopping. Temples across the Greater Toronto Area hold Lakshmi Puja and distribute sweets to devotees. The Canadian government and local councils also often support these events. Beyond Toronto, cities such as Vancouver and Calgary also host Diwali melas and cultural shows, so Indians across Canada can get a taste of home while away from it.
Leicester, United Kingdom
Leicester is widely regarded as the best place in Europe to witness Diwali. The Golden Mile on Belgrave Road is the center of activity, with thousands of lights strung across the street, food stalls serving Indian snacks and cultural performances that continue for days. The annual light switch‑on ceremony draws tens of thousands of people, followed by fireworks that illuminate the night sky. Leicester’s Diwali has grown so large that it is often described as the biggest outside India, a sign of the city’s strong Indian diaspora and its commitment to celebrating cultural diversity.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
In Malaysia, Diwali – known locally as Deepavali – is a public holiday celebrated nationwide. Kuala Lumpur hosts some of the most elaborate festivities, with the Batu Caves temple complex becoming a major destination for devotees lighting oil lamps and offering prayers. Shopping malls and public spaces are decorated with kolam (rangoli) designs and festive lights. Malaysian Indians also host open houses, inviting friends and neighbors of all backgrounds to share traditional meals.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Thanks to its large Indian expatriate population, Dubai has become a major hub for Diwali in the Middle East. The city’s skyline lights up with fireworks, while shopping malls and hotels host Diwali‑themed events, concerts and food festivals. In recent years, the Burj Khalifa has even displayed Diwali greetings, a heart-warming gesture which shows how the festival has been embraced in this global city. Temples and community centers organize pujas and cultural programs, while markets sell traditional sweets and festive clothing.
