Celebrating Diwali in Glasgow: A Festival of Light and Belonging
Published: 17 November 2025
Can you really feel at home when you’re far away? And what’s it like to celebrate your favourite traditions in a new country? In this blog, Riya, one of our MSc International Business students from Mumbai, India, shares her experience of living in Glasgow and celebrating Diwali for the first time away from home. From finding community to creating new memories, discover how she made Glasgow feel like home.
Author: Riya Nikhil Tipnis, MSc International Business student
Hi, I am Riya, I am from Mumbai, India. Earlier this year, I got an admission offer from my dream university, the University of Glasgow. And now I’m here, over 7,400 km away from home, embracing a new life full of possibilities.
As a student pursuing an MSc in International Business at the Adam Smith Business School, I’ve discovered that celebrating familiar traditions here in Glasgow helps me stay connected to home while sharing moments of joy and cultural exchange with others.
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of India’s most cherished celebrations. It marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, bringing families and friends together in warmth, gratitude, and hope.
The Festival of Lights and Its Meaning to Me
Diwali has always been my favourite festival. Back home in Mumbai, it’s a time when the entire city glows with light, homes are filled with the aroma of festive food, and the air buzzes with joy. To me, Diwali has always symbolized togetherness and new beginnings. It’s not just a festival; it’s a feeling of happiness and peace that connects me deeply to my roots.
A Parcel from Home
This year, celebrating Diwali in Glasgow was very special, even though I was far from home. A few days before the festival, I received a parcel from my parents in India. Inside was a beautiful traditional Indian outfit and some of my favourite snacks and sweets. Opening that box felt like opening a piece of home and instantly brought a big smile to my face.
Prayers at the Temple
On Diwali day, after finishing my classes, I visited the Hindu Mandir Glasgow, which is conveniently located not too far from the university. The familiar chants of prayers filled the air and reminded me of the temples back in Mumbai. I offered my prayers and wished for happiness and success for my family and friends. The calmness of that moment grounded me and made me feel deeply connected to my culture, even in a different country.
Celebrating with Friends
Later that evening, I invited a few friends over to my flat. I shared the sweets and snacks I’d received from home with them. My non-Indian friends were curious about the festival, and I enjoyed explaining the significance of Diwali and its traditions. Sharing these stories and seeing their genuine interest made the evening even more meaningful.
The next day, I video-called my parents, who were performing the pooja (prayer) in Mumbai. They showed me the beautiful decorations at home and even turned the camera towards the firecrackers bursting outside our building. Although I was thousands of miles away, watching the sparkle and hearing the familiar sounds made me feel close to them. It truly felt like Diwali had reached me in Glasgow.
A Vibrant Celebration in Glasgow
Later, I attended a Diwali celebration organized by the Desi Society here in Glasgow (You can also check the Glasgow University Desi Society social media to learn more). I wore the new Indian outfit my parents had sent, a vibrant traditional dress paired with bangles. Walking through the streets of my dream city in my traditional clothes felt heart-warming. Many people smiled at me, wished me “Happy Diwali”, and even complimented my outfit. It was such a lovely reminder of how multicultural and welcoming Glasgow is.
Me wearing my traditional dress on the streets of Glasgow.
The event itself was full of energy, laughter, and colour. There were delicious Indian food, music, and dancing. I attended the Diwali Mela (fair), clicked countless photos with my friends, and danced to Bollywood songs late into the night. When fireworks lit up the sky, I closed my eyes and, for a moment, it truly felt like I was back in Mumbai.
Fireworks lighting up the sky.
Finding Home Away from Home
That night, I walked back home with my heart full of memories, laughter, and gratitude. Experiencing Diwali in Glasgow made me realize that traditions can travel with us, they adapt, evolve, and continue to bring people together, no matter where we are in the world.
The celebration brought together memories of home and the joy of new experiences. Surrounded by friends, music, and lights, I felt a deep sense of comfort and connection. I realised that Diwali is not just about lights and celebrations, but about finding the warmth of home, even when you are far away from it.
First published: 17 November 2025