Australia’s Indian community is rallying for the Hindu festival of Diwali to gain recognition as a public holiday across all states and territories. Diwali, or Deepavali, stands as one of India’s most celebrated holidays, comparable to Christmas in significance, and involves traditions such as home cleaning, prayers, and lighting candles and sparklers.
The timing of Diwali varies each year, based on the lunisolar calendar, which follows the positions of the moon and the sun. This year, it takes place on Thursday, October 31.
Sai Paravastu, President of the Hindu Council of Australia, advocates for Diwali to become a public holiday or long weekend, highlighting the significance of the festival for hundreds of thousands of people. “Hindus from over 32 countries have made Australia their home,” he stated, emphasizing the potential for such a holiday to foster greater cultural understanding. “A public holiday would give others a chance to see our temples and traditions, helping them learn about our culture.”
Following New York City’s decision to make Diwali a public holiday, Melbourne resident Swati Sharma initiated a petition to push for similar recognition in Australia. “It’s about acknowledging Indians as a significant part of the population,” she explained. “If we have public holidays for the AFL and almost had one for the Matildas’ finals, then Diwali deserves the same consideration.”
Australia’s Indian-born population, which was about 753,520 as of June 2022, is the country’s second-largest migrant group after those from the United Kingdom. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Hindus account for 2.7 percent of the national population.
Paravastu and Sharma noted that prominent Australian businesses, including Woolworths and Coles, as well as local councils and childcare centers, have already begun to recognize Diwali. Now, they hope state and territory governments, which control public holiday policies, will do the same.
Federal Parramatta MP Andrew Charlton has voiced his support, advocating for national recognition of Diwali in parliament. “Diwali has become a beloved celebration across Australia,” Charlton remarked. “Its joy, colors, and lights reflect values that resonate deeply with Australians, making it a fitting addition to our national calendar.”
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