MUSCAT: Diwali, the Indian Festival of Lights, is set to be a subdued affair in Oman, as many Indian expatriate families have opted not to illuminate their homes in light of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The ongoing war has cast a shadow over the celebrations, with a significant number of families forgoing traditional decorations.
Despite the festivities officially commencing on Friday, the build-up has been notably muted. Expatriate Hindu families will mark Diwali on Sunday, but the usual vibrancy has been replaced by a sombre mood.
Indian students are granted an extended weekend, as schools have extended Diwali holidays until Monday.
While a four-day weekend typically sparks celebrations, some students expressed a lack of festive spirit, attributing it to the ongoing war in Palestine and the tragic loss of many children.
Some of the Indian schools will be closed on Sunday, November 12, and Monday, November 13, in observance of Diwali.
The decision to abstain from elaborate decorations is a gesture of solidarity with the Palestinians affected by the conflict.
In his remarks to Times of Oman, S. Manoj, an Indian Hindu, said, “This year, we decided not to put up lights for decoration to express our solidarity with Palestinians. With so many deaths in the region, it just doesn’t feel good to celebrate.”
Anita, an Indian housewife, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the need to be mindful of the suffering in the region. The general mood reflects a sense of responsibility and awareness of the global situation, prompting a reduction in celebratory activities.
Oman itself is scaling back on National Day celebrations, further contributing to the subdued atmosphere. Vinod, another Indian expatriate, noted, “The usual buzz will be missing this time,” as traditional lights are absent from many of our neighbourhoods.”
Dr Ramanathan, acknowledging the global turmoil in places like Ukraine, Sudan, and Palestine, said that “it is not a time for celebrations.” He added, “I am pained to see the devastation and misery of people, and in solidarity to the sufferings, this Diwali will be a low-key affair.”
While some aspects of the celebration are toned down, businesses like jewelery shops and sweets shops in Oman experienced increased activity in the days leading up to Diwali.
The Festival of Lights symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, and is marked by the lighting of lamps and the decoration of homes.
The customary rituals involve cleaning homes, lighting lamps, and creating rangolis, colorful designs meant to bring good luck. Despite the challenges, the spirit of Diwali endures, albeit in a more subdued form this year.
