For Narender Kumar and his family, celebrating Diwali in Australia has been a transformative experience. Having moved from Saudi Arabia to Box Hill in Melbourne's east last year, Kumar notes the festival's unique ability to bridge cultures. 'You get to share your feelings, excitement and your joy with much wider cultures and nationalities,' he says.
Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists, the main day this year falls on Tuesday in Australia. Preparations include lighting oil lamps (diyas) and, for some, taking an oil bath on Narak Charturdashi for purification.
Food plays a central role in the festivities. Kumar plans to share kaju katli, a cashew-based sweet, with his colleagues. 'It’s about sharing our joy and excitement with others,' he explains. Despite anti-immigration protests targeting the Indian community, Kumar feels welcomed. 'Every bit of Australia has welcomed us,' he says, adding that his employer has allowed him to work from home to join evening celebrations.
Diwali events have grown across Australia, reflecting the nation's fastest-growing religion, Hinduism, and its second-largest migrant community from India. Sydney's Bayside council held its first Diwali event on Saturday, while Melbourne's Wyndham festival featured fireworks and food stalls. Major venues like Marvel Stadium and Federation Square hosted large-scale celebrations, and the Sydney Opera House was illuminated in gold.
For Kumar, the festival is about family. Reunited with his younger brother and niece in Australia, he says, 'We are now two families. Our joy is doubled.' While he misses his parents in India, the togetherness brings an indescribable happiness.
