Indian Festivals and how we celebrate it.

In this episode of Global Desi Women, we celebrate one of the most cherished aspects of Indian culture—our festivals. Whether it’s the shimmering lights of Diwali, the vibrant colors of Holi, or the soulful celebrations of Eid, Indian festivals are rich with tradition and cultural significance. But how do these grand celebrations evolve when we're living abroad? How do we keep the spirit of these festivals alive while navigating life in a different cultural setting?  

Host Arti Solanki and her co-hosts Bhavana Shelley, Vinoo Palicha, and Karishma Shelley dive into the experiences of Indians living abroad, reflecting on how festivals like Diwali, Navratri, and Holi help keep cultural connections strong. These festivals not only bring families together but also serve as a bridge to the homeland, allowing us to hold onto our heritage, even as we integrate into new communities. However, celebrating these festivals abroad comes with its own set of challenges, from time zone differences and the lack of public holidays to difficulties in finding traditional foods, decorations, and attire. The hosts explore how families overcome these hurdles, finding creative ways to recreate festive traditions far from home.

One of the most significant aspects of celebrating Indian festivals abroad is the role of community. Whether it’s local temples, cultural centers, or informal gatherings of friends and families, Indian communities across the world come together to celebrate these occasions. The hosts share personal stories of grand Diwali parties, Garba nights during Navratri, and Holi celebrations in local parks, all of which offer a sense of belonging and camaraderie. These community-driven events often become larger than life, showcasing Indian culture to a wider audience and blending traditional celebrations with local flavor.

The conversation also touches on the fusion of traditions that often takes place when celebrating festivals abroad. Many diaspora families blend their Indian heritage with the customs of their adopted countries, creating hybrid celebrations that reflect both cultures. From celebrating Diwali alongside Thanksgiving to introducing their non-Indian friends to the colors and joy of Holi, these fusions offer unique opportunities for cultural exchange and understanding.

Generational differences also come into play, as the hosts discuss how second-generation Indian children, born and raised abroad, often experience festivals differently from their parents. For the older generation, there is a strong desire to replicate the festivals exactly as they were back home, while the younger generation may be more inclined to adapt the celebrations to fit their new environment.

The emotional side of celebrating festivals abroad is also a key topic in this episode. For many immigrants, festivals bring a bittersweet feeling of nostalgia and homesickness as they remember celebrating these occasions with large family gatherings back in India. 

As the episode wraps up, the hosts delve into the growing trend of sustainable celebrations, highlighting how diaspora families are embracing eco-friendly practices like plastic-free decorations, organic Holi colors, and upcycled festival attire. The conversation reveals how these modern values are blending with traditional practices, ensuring that festivals not only honor cultural heritage but also promote sustainability.

Tune in to this enlightening episode to hear how Indians across the world are keeping the spirit of their festivals alive, even while far from home. Whether you’re lighting diyas on your balcony in New York or throwing colors in a London park, Indian festivals continue to offer a powerfu