A Fusion of Lights | How Filipino-Indians Are Redefining Diwali CelebratioNS In the Philippines and Beyond
Happy Diwali to all our Filipino-Indian kababayan. For those who don’t know, Diwali, or the “Festival of Lights,” marks the victory of light over darkness, good over evil. It’s celebrated worldwide, but Filipino-Indian youth are doing something pretty unique by fusing Indian and Filipino culture to make this celebration feel totally fresh.
In Manila, Diwali celebrations have been leveling up, with huge gatherings like the annual Diwali Mela. Imagine this: a massive cultural event at the Philippine International Convention Center with traditional Indian music, dance, and food, but also Filipino friends and family joining in. Thousands show up, not just to celebrate Diwali but to share in the vibes of community, hope, and unity. The whole scene becomes a celebration of both Indian heritage and Filipino hospitality, creating a new version of Diwali that’s all about inclusion. Manila has been home to annual Diwali celebrations over the last few years and its been refreshing to see the cultures join in seamless celebration.
For Filipino-Indian millennials and gen z particularly, Diwali isn’t just about tradition, it’s about redefining it for a whole new generation. Instead of simply copying what’s done in India or adhering to tradition, they are bringing their Filipino roots into the mix. You might find dishes like lumpia next to samosas or tradition Filipino attire with Indian flair. Plus, sharing the tradition with their Filipino friends means Diwali becomes a bridge between cultures, with themes like kindness, gratitude, and resilience that everyone can connect with.
And it’s not just happening in the Philippines! Filipino-Indians around the world, especially in the U.S. and Canada, are making Diwali gatherings that mix both sides of their identity. It’s a reminder that tradition can be totally fluid, adapting and expanding to include everyone.
Filipino-Indian youth are showing that Diwali is way more than just a festival. It’s a chance to honor where they come from and embrace where they are. With each celebration, they’re proving that Diwali isn’t just about lighting up homes, it’s about lighting up hearts and breaking down borders.
Here are some fun ways you can celebrate Diwali in a uniquely Filipino style too.
Food Fusion Kamayans. They are pairing up classics from both cultures! Try serving samosa and pakoras alongside lumpia and pancit. You can even make gulab jamun halo-halo for dessert.
Dance Party. Mix Bollywood and Tinikling dance performances with a few over the top karaoke numbers. Imagine the energy of Bollywood blended with traditional bamboo pole dancing, complete with Filipino and Indian beats. Imagine the party this would be.
Holiday Decorations Mashup. Combine rangoli (intricate floor designs made from colored powder) with parol lanterns for a mix of Diwali and Filipino Christmas decor that lights up the space.
Holiday Games. What’s a party without games? You can host patintero (a classic Filipino game) and add an Indian twist by making it part of Diwali festivities, where the winners earn sweets or Diwali treats.
Shared Kwentohan. Host a night of storytelling where Filipino-Indians share folk tales from both cultures, like the Ramayana alongside Filipino myths. It’s a cool way to bring everyone together through shared values and folklore.
Diwali Care Packages. Celebrate the spirit of giving by creating fusion gift boxes that include treats like Indian sweets alongside Filipino snacks like dried mango or polvoron. Share these with friends and family as a symbol of prosperity and togetherness.
And our favorite, Ternos and Saris! Mix Filipino and Indian traditional attire, maybe a Barong with a sari twist, or a salwar kameez with traditional Filipino accessories.
As we celebrate the vibrant fusion of Filipino and Indian cultures, let's embrace the beauty of our shared traditions. To all our Filipino-Indian kapamilya out there, may your Diwali be filled with love, laughter, and light. Keep shining brightly as you weave your unique heritage into the fabric of your communities. Here's to many more celebrations that honor both our roots and the exciting paths we create together.