Expat Indian families in Qatar keep traditions alive this festive season

Doha, Qatar: For many South Asian expats in the country, yesterday marked the beginning of the week long festival of lights Diwali that falls on Octob...

Doha, Qatar: For many South Asian expats in the country, yesterday marked the beginning of the week-long festival of lights Diwali that falls on October 31-November 1 this year. It was also the day when those observing this festival believe that buying gold or silver is considered auspicious, which explains the rush that jewellery shops in Qatar witnessed. 

The festivities begin with Dhanteras on October 29, while the main celebrations happen on October 31, 2024.

Indian expat living in Qatar for past 10 years Divya Sreekumar said that Diwali this year has come at a time when the kids are having a break from school. "Me and my kids made some simple sweets at home and are planning to make rangoli patterns outside our house," says Divya adding that she misses her celebrations back home where they are grander and larger in scale.

The whole family comes together to celebrate with many different rituals depending on which part of India they come from.