Singapore-You can enjoy this national holiday by gazing at the beautifully decorated houses and smelling the strong musky aroma of incense sticks wafting through the air. The city's "Little India" can be tasted by strolling through the bazaars, exhibitions and Rangoli arts during Diwali. Outdoor concerts and decorative lights add to the charm. The Tekka Market in Little India is the only place where you can buy new clothes for the festive season.
UAE-If you stay in Dubai during Diwali you are sure to have the time of your life. The Diwali celebrations in Dubai last for five days and the shops in Dubai are packed with people looking to buy gold. Fairs in various malls and hotels sell decorations and traditional sweets, adding to the excitement of the festival. A complex inspired by the vibrant film industry, Bollywood Parks features special performances, light shows and exquisite Rangoli art exhibitions.
Australia-The land below will not disappoint! Diwali is celebrated in Melbourne and Brisbane, where people of Indian descent and locals gather to enjoy huge fireworks, traditional dancing and live entertainment. The celebrations at Melbourne's Federation Square are considered the biggest and grandest Diwali celebration in the country.
USA-The USA may seem like half a world away, but it's a lot closer than you think. The Western nation isn't far behind when it comes to celebrating the Festival of Lights. Diwali gained official status in 2003 and since then the fun has only increased. The country's Indian communities, overflowing with large numbers of Asian immigrants, celebrate the festival with much enthusiasm. Hindu temples house priests who perform prayers and share a meal.Some of the larger cities even have Diwali parades!
Nepal-This multi-ethnic, multilingual country in the foothills of the Himalayas is the only Hindu kingdom in the world. It's no surprise, then, that Diwali, also known as Tihar or Swanti, is celebrated here in honor of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Each of the five days has a special meaning. The preparation of tasty feed for animals such as cows and dogs is not uncommon here.
Indonesia-The Indonesian island of Bali is known for celebrating Diwali as the majority of the population living there is Indian. Diwali in Bali has people buying cookies, clothes and sweets, greeting family and friends, releasing floating lanterns and performing various rituals similar to those performed in India. They also celebrate a similar festival called Galungan, meaning the time when the ancestral spirits visit the earth.
England-Even the cold, wet and windy terrain of Britain cannot dampen Indian spirits during the Diwali season. As the second largest ethnic group in England, Indians here make the most of the Diwali celebration to reconnect with their roots. One of the biggest celebrations takes place on the Golden Mile in the heart of Leicester where LED shows are popular.
South Africa-Home to at least a million Indian immigrants, a number of Indian festivals including Diwali are celebrated here. It is celebrated for two days and clay lamps are lit; Communities enjoy traditional Indian sweets and savory foods, wear their best attire and socialize with loved ones. Many avoid eating non-vegetarian food, but some don't mind trying a delicious South African braai. Food, flea markets, henna artists, fireworks and entertainment for the kids.