NRIs organise Diwali parties in Melbourne

Like their counterparts in India, NRIs settled around the world experienced confusion about the exact date to celebrate Diwali. Most NRIs preferred to host parties on Friday night after performing Puja either on Thursday night or during the day on Friday.

Amandeep Kaushal from Sihar village said many of his friends and relatives celebrated Diwali based on their parents’ advice from India. He pointed out that, contrary to the common belief that NRIs neglect festival rituals, many Punjabis abroad seek guidance from religious leaders. Kaushal acknowledged the confusion among NRIs regarding the celebration date.

While some believed Diwali was to be celebrated on October 31, others observed it on Friday. Uttam Punj, an NRI in Melbourne, explained that according to Drik Panchang, Diwali actually fell on Thursday, with Lakshmi Puja scheduled for that day since the Amavasya moon was visible that evening. Punj mentioned Punjabi families in his area celebrated Diwali collectively at one home after performing puja at their own houses earlier in the day.

Jagjivan Bhardwaj from Malerkotla, now in New York, said religious leaders advised them to perform puja during Amavasya Tithi, which began at 3.55 pm on Thursday and concluded at 6.18 pm on Friday.

The NRIs described a strong sense of religious fervour in their communities, particularly among Indians and Punjabis. Clad in ceremonial attire, men, women and children decorated their homes with Rangoli, illuminated their surroundings, burst fireworks and exchanged gifts, celebrating the spirit of Diwali together.