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Diwali 2025 celebration: Singapore Indian migrant workers and Indian expatriates in Shanghai celebrated Diwali, the Festival of Lights,  with vibrant celebrations highlighting culture, community, and culinary traditions. Across locations thousands of Indians and locals came together to share in the festivities, reflecting the growing international appeal of India’s most cherished festival.

Migrant Workers Celebrate Diwali In Singapore

More than 500 Indian migrant workers received a special Diwali treat at the Flower Field Hall of Singapore's iconic Gardens by th Bay. The event featured cultural performances, games, and a lamp-lighting ceremony. Guests wrote their wishes to family members back home on postcards to be mailed, closing the gaps between homesickness and celebration.

The event was organised by the Assurance, Care and Engagement Group (ACE) at the Ministry of Manpower and the Indian Institute of Management Alumni Singapore. It was attended by Minister of State for Manpower, Dinesh Vasu Dash, who was appreciative of the role played by migrant workers in enabling Singapore's development. "It is not easy to be away from home. We want to celebrate with you and ensure that you don't feel lonely in Singapore," he said.

In Singapore's Little India, Krsna's Free Meals hosted a special Deepavali feast for more than 5,000 migrant workers. Established by LathaGovindasamy in 2018, the charity has evolved from serving 80 meals a day to some 4,000, providing migrant workers with breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The Diwali celebration held once a year included hot briyani, desserts, snacks, and care packs with items like water bottles, encouraging gratitude as well as sustainability. Latha pointed out that dignity in giving is crucial, as most workers generously give a small donation of their own accord, developing a "pay it forward" culture. Minister Dinesh too made an appearance to hand out care packs and mingle with the workers.

Indian Diaspora Lights Up Diwali In Shanghai

Thousands of miles from home in Shanghai, the Indian Association Shanghai and the Indian Consulate organized the city's biggest Diwali celebration. Organized by Consul General Pratik Mathur, the event attracted more than 800 guests, comprised of Indian expatriates, Chinese residents, and businesspeople.

The event was initiated by a traditional Lakshmi Puja, calling for prosperity and good fortune, after which cultural performances in the form of Indian music, dance, and theatrical representations were conducted. Foreign guests also partook in authentic Indian food, which was greatly appreciated by foreigners. Consul General Mathur emphasized that such events like Diwali reinforce the Indian diaspora community and promote cross-cultural ties with host nations.

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Diwali, celebrated during the new moon or Amavasya, symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. The festival, rooted in Indian tradition, has increasingly become a global celebration, promoting cultural dialogue, community harmony, and festive cheer.

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Singapore and Shanghai’s Diwali celebrations underscore the festival’s universal message of hope, unity, and shared joy, bringing together diverse communities across the world.

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