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Indian diplomatic missions across the world celebrated Diwali on Saturday, October 18, reflecting India's diverse cultural heritage and the festival's universal message of light triumphing over darkness. From Japan and Myanmar to Hungary, Fiji and the United Arab Emirates, the celebrations brought together Indian communities, local citizens and dignitaries, reported by IANS.

In Japan, students, faculty and members of the Indian community joined friends of India to celebrate Diwali at Shimane University. R. Madhu Sudan, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of India in Tokyo, addressed the gathering through a video message, highlighting the deepening friendship and growing cultural exchange between India and Japan.

Yoshimi Kataoka, Vice-President of Shimane University, also extended greetings on the occasion. The Indian Embassy in Tokyo said that several universities in Japan hosted Diwali events this week, reflecting the enduring bond between the two nations and the shared appreciation of Indian traditions.

In Myanmar, the Myanmar India Friendship Association, along with Indian diaspora organisations, organised a cultural event at the National Theatre in Yangon on Friday evening. The celebrations featured traditional performances, music and dance, symbolising India’s unity in diversity and the message of harmony that Diwali represents.

Meanwhile in Hungary, the Amrita Sher-Gil Cultural Centre at the Indian Embassy in Budapest hosted Diwali celebrations as part of a Hindi lecture series. Hungarian students learning Hindi participated in the event, which included an engaging lecture and short cultural performances.

"The event showcased the richness of Indian traditions - lighting up the evening with learning, joy and togetherness," the Embassy posted on X, describing the celebration as a "beautiful exchange of cultures".

In Fiji, the Police Headquarters in Suva marked Diwali with a celebration focused on justice and inclusivity. The event recognised the Indo-Fijian and Indian communities, who form an important part of Fiji’s population and continue to contribute to the country’s social and cultural life.

In the United Arab Emirates, Indian Consul General Satish Sivan inaugurated the Diwali Festival at Al Seef in Dubai. Extending festive greetings to the Indian diaspora, he praised their role in strengthening cultural ties and promoting India’s values abroad.

Ankit Kumar is a Senior Sub Editor at Zee Business. He covers international affairs, politics, climate change, business, finance and global elections. With experience acros