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Non-Indian families join Diwali festivities

Diwali gained popularity even among non-Indian families in the city as their penchant for Bollywood films, colours and flavours of the subcontinent catches up to them.

DUBAI - The Indian festival of lights has gained popularity even among non-Indian families in the city as their penchant for Bollywood films, colours and flavours of the subcontinent catches up to them.

Ravi Rathore and family moved to a predominantly European neighbourhood in Arabian Ranches two years ago when their third child was born. “We outgrew our two bedroom flat in Bur Dubai so we thought buying a freehold villa would be the ideal next step,” the second generation Indian expat told Khaleej Times. After years of celebrating Diwali in a grand fashion, Ravi noted the lack of interest in their new neighbourhood, even from Indian neighbours who consider themselves as active members of the Indian community.

“We’ve seen quite a few Indian families in the neighbourhood with distinct ‘Om’ signs on their doors, and we’ve even run into some neighbours at India Club events, but last year, we didn’t see any decorations or lights up during Diwali. This year, we want to celebrate it in style,” the textile store owner said. Ravi and his wife Sujata drew up an informal petition encouraging the Indian families in their neighbourhood in Mirador to set up Diwali decorations.

“As fun as Halloween is for children, I hope it doesn’t overshadow the festival of lights this year,” Sujata said, referring to the eery lighting and jack-O-lanterns dotting neighbouring backyards.

The walkway to their five bedroom villa greets visitors with rose petals and diyas, leading up to a large rangoli design on their front porch. Sujata shared how her Turkish and French neighbours were intrigued by the whole process and volunteered to help. “Ipek (her Turkish neighbour) grew up watching Amitabh Bacchan movies and listening to Indian film songs. She has heard so much about Diwali through the movies that she was overjoyed at the thought of participating in the festivities,” Sujata added.

Families usually honour the age-old story of the Ramayan and its moral triumph of good over evil by overindulging in lights, colours, glitter and sequins on everything—from clothes to furniture at their homes.

Hind Al Bana, an Emirati housewife based in Mirdif, noted how her neighbours stay up late every night of Diwali, singing, dancing, playing games and generally enjoying the annual festival. “Some neighbours might have a problem with the noise, if parties get too loud, but for us, it’s very fascinating. They exchange sweets and tell stories to children in a way that shows how much many Indians respect and revere their culture and traditions,” Hind said. She has been invited to her neighbours’ houses for Diwali, which she likens to the Emirati tradition, Haq Al Laila, where children exchange sweets and gather around for story time. “Our cultures are similar that we value history and tradition, and the Indian community itself has a long history in the UAE.”

Most non-Hindu Indians also joined festivities, recognising the important place Diwali holds in the hearts of Dubai residents. “Diwali is on a working day, yet so many people are taking the day off or clocking off work early just to attend parties. Not just the Hindus either,” Shabaan El Sheikh, a contractor based in Jebel Ali said. “We even had a mini party at the office with Indian sweets.”

While some choose to return to India for the five-day festival, most residents prefer to stay rooted in Dubai, upholding religious rites like Lakshmi Pooja and prayer sessions at home. The religious element of the festival of lights aside, most Indian families have been hosting large parties for years, opening their homes to their non-Indian friends to share their joy and join the festivities.

praseeda@khaleejtimes.com