Indian diplomatic missions across the globe marked Diwali, the festival of lights, on Saturday, reflecting India’s vibrant cultural heritage and promoting unity and harmony worldwide.

In Japan, students, faculty, and members of the Indian community joined friends of India at Shimane University for a spirited Diwali celebration. R. Madhu Sudan, Charge d’Affaires at the Indian Embassy in Tokyo, addressed the gathering via video message, highlighting the growing friendship and cultural exchange between India and Japan. Yoshimi Kataoka, Vice President of the university, also shared her remarks. The celebration underscored the enduring bond between India and Japan through cultural exchange and education.

Meanwhile, in Myanmar, the India Friendship Association, along with Indian diaspora organizations, celebrated Diwali at the National Theatre in Yangon. The event featured cultural performances, festive decorations, and traditional rituals, emphasizing unity and brotherhood.

In Hungary, students learning Hindi at the Amrita Sher-Gil Cultural Centre at the Indian Embassy in Budapest participated in Diwali festivities that combined lectures on Indian traditions with brief cultural performances, illuminating the evening with learning, joy, and togetherness.

The festival was also celebrated in Fiji at the Police Headquarters in Suva, highlighting the Indo-Fijian community’s role in local society. In Dubai, Indian Consul General Satish Sivan inaugurated the Diwali Festival at Al Seef, extending greetings to the Indian diaspora and promoting cultural exchange.

Across continents, these celebrations reaffirmed Diwali’s universal message of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Indian missions used the occasion not only to honor traditions but also to strengthen bilateral relationships and foster community engagement, illustrating India’s rich cultural legacy and its enduring global influence.