Australia is a land of diverse cultures and traditions, a melting pot where people from all corners of the globe come together to call this great southern land home. Among the many vibrant communities that enrich the Australian social fabric, the Indian community stands out with its colorful festivals, rich heritage, and deep-rooted values. One such festival that holds immense significance for Indians and many others around the world is Diwali, the festival of lights. It's a time of joy, reflection, and togetherness, celebrated with fervor by hundreds of thousands across Australia. But despite its popularity, Diwali is not yet recognized as an official public holiday in the country. This has led to a renewed call from the Indian community for Diwali to be embraced as a national holiday.

Diwali, which in 2023 falls on October 31, is more than just a festival; it's a symbol of new beginnings, the triumph of good over evil, and light over darkness. It's a time when families and friends gather to light lamps, set off fireworks, share sweets, and create memories. The Hindu Council of Australia, representing a significant portion of the Hindu population in the country, has been at the forefront of this push for national recognition. The council's president, Sai Paravastu, emphasizes that recognizing Diwali as a public holiday would not only honor the Hindu community but also offer a chance for all Australians to learn about and participate in the festivities.



The support for this initiative isn't limited to the Indian community alone. Federal Labor MP Andrew Charlton has voiced his backing, highlighting how Diwali's core values resonate with the Australian spirit. He points out that the festival's emphasis on unity and joy aligns with the values that make the Indian diaspora an integral part of the Australian community.


The statistics speak volumes about the growing Indian presence in Australia. With over 750,000 Indian-born residents, the Indian community is now the second-largest migrant group in the country. This demographic shift reflects a broader trend of increasing cultural diversity, with Hinduism being practiced by 2.7% of the Australian population according to the 2021 Census.



Despite Christianity remaining the most common religion, there has been a notable decline in adherence, while the number of Australians identifying with no religion has risen. This changing religious landscape suggests a need for a more inclusive approach to public holidays that reflects the nation's multicultural identity.

The Lowy Institute, a respected think tank, has argued that adding more culturally diverse public holidays would not only acknowledge the contributions of various communities but also send a strong message of inclusivity and tolerance to the world. Such a move would challenge the notion of Australia as merely a 'western outpost' and instead celebrate its position as a vibrant, pluralistic society.

Incorporating Diwali into the national calendar would be a step towards normalizing cultural pluralism and fostering unity. It would encourage Australians from all backgrounds to engage with different beliefs and practices, thereby enriching the nation's cultural tapestry.



As the conversation continues, it's clear that the recognition of Diwali as a public holiday would be more than a day off work; it would be a celebration of Australia's diversity and a commitment to embracing the many cultures that make up its population. It's a chance for all Australians to experience the warmth and light of Diwali, to learn from each other, and to grow together as a community.


We at the Seniors Discount Club invite our readers to share their thoughts on this topic. Have you participated in Diwali celebrations? Do you think adding Diwali as a public holiday would enrich the Australian cultural experience? Let's discuss in the comments below and celebrate the diversity that makes Australia truly unique.