What is Diwali and why is it celebrated?
Diwali is called the Festival of Lights and it is one of the most popular Hindu festivals celebrated all over the world. Although Diwali celebrations may vary in different communities, it is the triumph of light over darkness and signifies a new year.
Check out our guide below for Celebrating Diwali in Hong Kong.
Diwali is celebrated over 5 days and is said to be in honour of Rama (incarnation of the god Vishnu), who returned home after 14 years in exile during which he fought and defeated the demon king Ravana. People lit their houses with diyas (clay lamp) to celebrate his victory. It is also believed that the Goddess of Happiness and Good Fortune, Lakshmi, roams the earth on this day and the lights act as her guide.
When is Diwali this year?
This year, Diwali will be from Friday, 10 November 2023 to Wednesday, 15 November 2023. The first day is known as Dhanteras, the words in Sanskrit stand for wealth, and also refers to the 13th day of the Hindu calendar. This day is often marked by praying to the goddess Lakshmi and buying an object made of metal. Depending on your budget, this can be jewellery, coins or simple household items made of iron, copper or brass. Metal is considered to bring good luck and keep negative energy at bay. Businesses in India also mark Dhanteras as the first day of their financial year.
The second day is called Chotti Diwali, (which literally means small Diwali) the pre party if you will, followed by the main celebration on Saturday, 12 November. The fourth day is the first day of the Indian New Year, when people wish each other Happy New Year! Bhai Dooj, is the last day of the Diwali celebrations, and it celebrates the bond between brother and sister.
How Do People Celebrate Diwali?
During Diwali people wear traditional clothes, and decorate their homes with diyas and rangoli. Rangoli are patterns traditionally made with coloured sand or rice. You can also use paints and colouring pens to create the designs. The designs represent happiness and positivity and are generally situated at the front of the house to welcome the Goddess Laksmi.
Diwali is a time to be with family and friends and celebrate together with food, gifts and fireworks. People will also visit temples and perform pujas at home. Here are a few of the temples in Hong Kong:
- Hindu Temple, 1B Wong Nai Chong Road, Happy Valley, 2572 5284
- Kowloon Hindu Temple, 2/F, Carnarvon Mansion, 8-12 Carnarvon Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2572 5284
- Sathya Sai Baba Centre of Hong Kong, 10/F, Block A, Burlington House, 92-94 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
- ISKON Hong Kong, 6/F, Ocean View Court, 27 Chatham Road South. Tsim Sha Tsui
Lighting a diya (or any candle) is an important aspect of the celebration. Growing up, we were told that for all five days there must always be a candle lit outside your house, regardless of whether you are home or not. Diyas symbolise many things and are thought to represent goodness, purity and luck.
Since Diwali is celebrated on the new moon day, it is also a way to dispel any darkness and bring light into your house. The light from the lamps also helps to guide the goddess Lakshmi into your home. Most Indian stores in Hong Kong sell plain diyas and you can decorate them at home with the family. Check out StarMart, 4 Season Store, SpiceBox Organics, You Store, Spicestore HK and of course Chungking Mansions to buy your diyas.
Diwali Books
If you’re looking for some inspiration to teach your children and friends about Diwali, there are some great books you can lean upon. We’ve listed some of our favourites below and they all make great Diwali gifts too!
- Amma, Tell Me about Diwali!
- Lilu makes Diyas
- Peppa Pig: Peppa’s Diwali
- Rama and Sita: The Story of Diwali
- Rainbow Magic: Deena the Diwali Fairy
You may also like: The Best Children’s Books By Hong Kong Authors
What Traditional Gifts Are Given During Diwali?
No Diwali celebration would be complete without some traditional Indian sweets (Mithai). Traditionally sweet and savoury dishes are made at home with your loved ones and then gifted to family and friends. It is also common practice to buy boxes of sweets to give as gifts to family, neighbours or to enjoy yourself! There are many options of Mithai boxes in Hong Kong and keep in mind pre-ordering is essential. Check out some of our recommendations:
- Geeta’s Kitchen – Whatsapp 6430 2513
- Sonya Mool – [email protected] or [email protected], 9816 9430
- You Store HK – Whatsapp 5603-2814, [email protected]
- Spice Store HK – 2944 2336, WhatsApp: 9888 3559
- Desi Bazaar – G/F, Sussex Court, 120 Caine Road, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong, 2987 4555
- Bombay Dreams – Address: 1/F, Winning Centre, 46 Wyndham Street, Central, 2811 9888
Other common gifts include statues of gods (like Lakshmi and Ganesh), rangoli, diyas, jewellery (try Kasido HK) and new clothes. Or you can opt for platters of dried fruits, candles and other home decor items such as serving platters and bowls. Kowloon Bazaar is a good place to pick up some beautiful gifts.
Mums@Play will be hosting its annual Diwali bazaar on 19 October 2022. Expect stalls selling festive items like traditional home decorations, curated gift items, ethnic fusion wear, jewellery, organic skincare, candles and diyas, luxury glassware, organic food items and more. Address: At Garage Society, Lockhart Road, Wanchai.
Where to Eat Indian food during Diwali in Hong Kong
Diwali is a special time to get together with family and friends and have a big feast. Try Chaiwala for its brunch menus, including street food bites, dishes from the Tandoor, and curries. Chaat at the Rosewood delivers authentic flavours in an elegant and modern setting. Indulge in an immense feast at Rajistan rifles with views of the Peak. Michelin star New Punjab Club ticks the boxes on ambinece and food for a terrific Diwali celebration.
There are many wonderful Indian restaurants across Hong Kong where you can enjoy a wide selection of Indian cuisines from different regions. We’ve listed some of our favourites below:
- Bombay Dreams, Room 401, 4/F, Chinachem Hollywood Centre, Room 401, 4/F, Chinachem Hollywood Centre, 2219 6800
- New Punjab Club, 34 Wyndham Street, Central, 2368 1223
- Rajashan Rifles, G/F, The Peak Galleria, 2388 8874
- Pondi, 14 Fuk Sau Lane, Sai Ying Pun
- Jashan, 1st Floor, Amber Lodge, 23 Hollywood Road, Central, 3105 5300
You might also like: NEW Family Friendly Restaurants in Hong Kong
Where to Shop for traditional Indian Clothes in Hong Kong
There are many ways of celebrating Diwali in Hong Kong, and one colourful way to do so is to wear Indian clothing! Outfits like Saree’s and Kurta’s are made in vibrant colours and often with intricate detailing. Dressing up over Diwali is a must but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Anything bright and bold can be worn and dressed up with jewellery. However, if you are after a more traditional Indian outfit, you can try any of the following outlets in Hong Kong:
- Kanta Trading, 3rd Floor, Shop No.T1-T2, Cathay 88 Cathay Lodge, 125 Wan Chai Road, 6970 5313
- Authentic Bazaar HK, 9568 1710, Instagram @authentic_bazaarhk
- Ethnica HK, Whatsapp 6200 2317
- Sanskrit,1 Lyndhurst Terrace, Suite 1604, Central, Phone: 2545 2088, [email protected]
- Nanak Clothes House, Shop G47, G/F, Cathay Lodge, 125 Wanchai Road, [email protected], 6432 7004
- Tabla by Tania Mohan, [email protected]
- Baysic Love Resortwear PokFuLam, [email protected], 9731 7104
However you to choose to celebrate Diwali in Hong Kong – “May the Divine Light of Diwali Spread into your Life bringing Peace, Prosperity, Happiness and Good Health’. – HAPPY DIWALI
All photos courtesy of Shutterstock
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