What countries celebrate Diwali

[paul linus]

There are several countries apart from India that celebrates Diwali, the festival of lights. The countries are Fiji, Guyana, Malaysia, Nepal, Myanmar, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Trinidad and Tobago, Japan, Indonesia, Britain, Africa, Thailand and Australia.

 

[Nil Thapliyal]

In Indonesia Diwali is celebrated on the Bali island mainly. It has a huge population of Hindus. The celebration here is similar to what is celebrated in India.

One more thing... the word Indonesia is derived from Greek words 'Indos' and 'Nesos.' Indos mean Indian and Nesos mean islands.

 

[paul linus]

Yes, the total Hindu population of Indonesia is just 2 percent but on Bali island, the population of Hindus is 83 percent as per the 2010 census.

Also, Hinduism in the country is one of the six official religions.

 

[Nil Thapliyal]

Hindu influences reached Indonesia in the first century. Both Sumatra and Java in the country has cultural influence from India. Between 4th and 15th century Java had several Hindu kingdoms. Some of those include Sunda, Kediri, Medang and Kalinga.

 

[paul linus]

Bali Island has lately turned up as a major tourist destination for people visiting Indonesia due to the temple architecture, rich culture, elaborate Hindu festivals and natural beauty.

 

[Nil Thapliyal]

It is a general believe that Diwali is celebrated as a mark to the return of Lord Rama from exile of fourteen years, but in Mauritius it is said the festival of light is an age-old tradition. It is believed Diwali was celebrated even before return of Rama. Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, is worshiped on the day.