A social media post by an Australian woman has triggered widespread outrage after she described Diwali decorations in a Sydney neighbourhood as a “threat” to Western culture. The remarks have sparked an intense online debate over cultural coexistence, diversity, and the meaning of multiculturalism in modern Australia. The controversy began when Kobie Thatcher, an Australian resident, posted a short video on X (formerly Twitter) showing several homes in Nirimba Fields, a suburb i

A Diwali celebration in New Jersey turned into an online controversy after a video of Indian students bursting fireworks on a public street drew criticism from social media users. The short clip, uploaded by 20-year-old Mukul Verma, showed a group of young people celebrating the festival of lights when local firefighters arrived and began spraying water on the fireworks. What was intended to be a joyful cultural celebration soon became a subject of heated online discussion over safety, legali

Diwali 2025 Overview Diwali, also called Deepavali, is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals across India and the Indian diaspora globally. In 2025, the main Lakshmi Puja (Diwali Day) falls on: Date: Monday, October 20, 2025 Diwali is observed over five days, starting from Dhanteras (Oct 18) and ending with Bhai Dooj (Oct 22). Amavasya Tithi (New Moon)

The Supreme Court of India has allowed the use of green firecrackers in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) during the Diwali season under strict regulations. The court’s decision permits their use between October 18 and 21, but only during specific time slots—between 6 am and 7 am, and from 8 pm to 10 pm on the day before Diwali and the day of the festival. The move is part of an effort to strike a balance between cultural celebrations and environmental protection amid growing co

Dhanteras 2025, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the spiritual beginning of the five-day Diwali festival, celebrated with joy and devotion across India and by the Indian diaspora worldwide, including the USA. This sacred day falls on Saturday, 18 October 2025, and is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Lord Kubera, the god of riches. Devotees perform special Lakshmi-Kubera Puja, light diyas, and purchase gold, silver, and utensils as a sign of prosperity and

The Diwali season is one of the busiest times of the year for Apple in India, and 2025 is no exception. With the launch of the iPhone 17 series creating a frenzy across major cities, Apple has rolled out attractive festive offers that include instant cashback, no-cost EMIs, and deals across iPhones, MacBooks, iPads, and Apple Watch devices. Buyers in India can now take advantage of discounts that make premium Apple devices more accessible just in time for the

Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most celebrated and joyous occasions in India and across the world. The festival brings people together for grand celebrations, family reunions, and delicious feasts. If you're planning a Diwali party, one of the most important aspects is to plan the food. From savory snacks to indulgent sweets, Diwali food plays a central role in the festivities. Whether you're hosting a small gathering or a grand celebration, getting the menu right is essential

Indian festivals are a grand celebration of culture, tradition, and food. The joy of gathering with family and friends is often enhanced by a delicious spread of special dishes that are prepared for every occasion. Whether it's the festive fervor of Diwali, the vibrancy of Holi, the devotion of Navratri, or the sacred observances of Eid, every Indian festival is marked by mouth-watering dishes that are as rich in flavor as they are in tradition.

In a heartfelt gesture of appreciation and unity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with soldiers in Kachchh, Gujarat, today. Dressed in an Army uniform, he distributed sweets to personnel from the BSF, Army, Navy, and Air Force stationed at Lakki Nala in Sir Creek. This visit is part of Modi's ongoing tradition of spending the festival with security forces, a practice he has upheld since taking office in 2014. Over the years, Prime Minister Modi has visited various

In a positive development for India-China relations, both nations have completed the disengagement process in the Depsang and Demchok regions of Eastern Ladakh, with patrolling expected to commence soon. Army sources confirmed that the verification process is ongoing and that ground commanders will finalize the patrolling modalities. To celebrate Diwali, Indian troops are set to exchange sweets with their Chinese counterparts on Thursday. Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, exp

NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams Sends Diwali Wishes from Space NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, who has spent nearly five months aboard the International Space Station (ISS), extended heartfelt Diwali greetings to those celebrating in the United States and worldwide. In a video message recorded from 260 miles above Earth, Williams, of Indian heritage, shared her unique perspective on the festival from space. She reflected on her father’s dedication to

Pennsylvania has made history as the first U.S. state to officially declare Diwali a public holiday, acknowledging the cultural and spiritual significance of the festival with bipartisan support. Signed into law by Governor Josh Shapiro following its passage in the Pennsylvania Senate on October 9, 2024, this new measure designates Diwali to be celebrated annually on the 15th day of Kartik in the Hindu lunisolar calendar, with the first official observance spanning October 31 to November 1, 2

Diwali and Dhanteras 2024: Unique Celebration Ideas, Rituals, and Party Tips for Indian Americans For Indian Americans, celebrating Diwali and Dhanteras is a blend of honoring traditional customs while finding new, meaningful ways to engage with the festival in a multicultural setting. Whether you're preparing rituals, organizing a Diwali gathering, or adding unique touches to your festivities, here’s everything you need to make Diwali 2024 unforgettable

With the festive season fast approaching, particularly the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras, gold and silver prices in India are showing notable fluctuations. As of Friday, gold is trading at ₹78,060 per 10 grams, according to the India Bullion and Jewellers Association Ltd (IBJA). This slight dip occurs as both metals hover near their all-time highs, spurred by traditional demand during this significant buying period. Dhanteras and its Significance: Dhanteras mar

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a Diwali bonus of Rs 29,000 for its officers and employees in 2024, as reported by NDTV. This decision was made following discussions between Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and the Municipal Commissioner, responding to demands from various worker and employee unions within the BMC. The new bonus amount represents an increase from last year’s Rs 26,000, reflecting the BMC's commitment to support its workforce during t