November 9th, 2007, Indian community in Kuwait and around the World will be celebrating the festival of Diwali. Diwali in importance can be compared to Eid and Christmas that is celebrated around the World by Muslims and Christians. Diwali is also called the festival of lights, fire-crackers, sweets and prosperity. The festival of Diwali is for Goddess Laxmi [ goddess of wealth].

In Kuwait if you drive around Salmiya you will see that most of the residential buildings are already decorated with multicolored lights. This will continue till next week. The best part of Diwali are the fire-crackers, so dont be startled if you are passing by Salmiya or live in Salmiya and hear big bangs on November 9th especially in the night.

Although the local authorities are pretty strict about fire-crackers but the kids have their way around for the celebrations. The festivities begin with prayers, exchange of sweets, and then lots of fireworks follow. Children and adults alike participate in the festivities, celebrations and blowing the firecrackers.The Indian community has always celebrated this festival with lots of vigor irrespective of their religious inclinations.

So if you have any Hindu friends don’t forget to wish them Happy Diwali. And in case you are visiting their homes, make sure you take a packet of sweets as a gift for them.