So here I am, gearing up to celebrate my very first Diwali in New York City, and let me tell you—it’s an experience like no other. Imagine blending the magic of the festival of lights with the unrelenting energy of the city that never sleeps. It’s like stepping into an alternate universe, where tradition meets the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle, and somehow, it all makes sense.
Remember when I talked about embracing new beginnings in “Namaste to New Beginnings: Your First Steps in the Land of Opportunity”? Well, Diwali in the States feels like that on steroids—except with a lot more sparkle, colour, and of course, heaps of mithai! It’s about holding on to a piece of home while standing on new ground, finding those familiar vibes amidst towering skyscrapers, yellow cabs, and the never-ending subway rush. It’s like trying to capture the warmth of a diya in the glow of the neon lights of Times Square. And trust me, there’s something incredibly poetic about that contrast.
As the city gets ready for Halloween, the desi community here is preparing for Diwali in full swing, and the excitement is infectious. We’re talking bright marigold garlands, rangoli outside apartment doors, and a feeling of belonging despite being thousands of miles away from home. It’s incredible how no matter where you are, the essence of Diwali remains the same – it’s that familiar pull of family, food, and festivity that transcends borders. It’s like the lights of Diwali know no distance – they shine just as bright whether you’re in Mumbai or Manhattan.
Festive Feels in the Concrete Jungle
Now, if you’re thinking Diwali in America might feel like a low-key affair, think again. NYC knows how to turn up the heat (or the lights, in this case). Indian Americans in the city go all out – think vibrant diyas lining apartment windows, rangolis painted on Brooklyn stoops, and entire streets adorned with festive lanterns. I decided to head to a Lantern Festival in Queens, which had a mix of both Chinese and Indian influences, turning the night into a magical fusion of cultures.
Pro Tip: If you’re into DIY Indian festive decorations, you’ll love scouting for them in Jackson Heights. You can find everything from intricate lanterns to Diwali-themed candles that scream, “I’m bringing India to my NYC apartment.” Trust me, you’ll feel like you’re setting up a Bollywood set right in the heart of Manhattan.
The Best Indian Restaurants in New York (Food, Glorious Food!)
Of course, no Diwali celebration is complete without stuffing your face with all the festive goodness. Lucky for me, New York City delivers (literally, thanks to Uber Eats). From jalebis at Mithaas in Jersey to rich, buttery gulab jamuns from Rajbhog in Queens, it’s like a sweet tooth’s paradise. I even stumbled upon a pop-up stall selling chaat and pakoras during a Diwali street fair in Soho – because, why not? If you’re craving even more indulgence, don’t miss the legendary sweets from Kalustyan’s in Manhattan or fresh mithai boxes from Patel Brothers in Jackson Heights. Whether it’s kaju katli or motichoor laddoos, these spots have it all.
If you’re craving a full-on feast, make sure to swing by one of the Hindu temples during Diwali. These temples don’t just offer spiritual solace – they serve up some amazing free prasad (blessings in the form of food). The Hindu Temple Society of North America in Flushing, Queens, was lit – both spiritually and literally, with its gorgeous Diwali lights and the steady stream of halwa and laddoos being handed out.
Where Traditions Meet the Big Apple
The best part about celebrating Diwali in the States is watching how seamlessly Indian festivals blend with American traditions. The city hosts Indian festival celebrations across the boroughs, with cultural performances, dhol beats echoing through Central Park, and fireworks lighting up the Hudson. I joined a community celebration in Jersey City, where the fireworks display felt like NYC’s July 4th, but with more desi flair and bhangra beats. I even threw on my sari, which somehow looked even more radiant against the backdrop of the NYC skyline. (Note to self: Saris are totally street-style appropriate for Diwali in the States. Period.)
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect Diwali outfit, NYC has no shortage of places to find stunning Indian clothes. Head over to Little India in Jackson Heights for a treasure trove of sarees and lehengas at stores like Butala Emporium or Raj Mahal. For those looking for high-end options, check out Heritage India Fashions near Madison Avenue for a curated selection of traditional yet chic Indian wear. And if you need accessories, don’t forget to swing by Khajana Boutique for beautiful jewellery that perfectly complements your festive look.
Diwali in NYC is truly a magical blend of food, fashion, and culture, all wrapped in the sparkle of the festival of lights!
Lighting Up My American Life
Diwali here feels like an extension of the “new beginnings” I wrote about in my last blog. This festival, known for symbolising the victory of light over darkness, feels even more meaningful in a city that’s already so full of possibilities. It’s like saying, “Hey, you’ve made it here, and you’re going to shine.” Whether it’s stringing fairy lights across my apartment or watching the lights twinkle on the Empire State Building, I’m reminded that Diwali isn’t just about the rituals we follow – it’s about embracing the light within ourselves, wherever we are.
So, here’s to celebrating Diwali in America, to lanterns lighting up not just my space but my journey in this big, crazy, beautiful city. And if you’re here too, I promise, there’s no better way to mark new beginnings than with a plate of samosas in hand and fireworks lighting up the city that never sleeps.
Happy Diwali, y’all! Or should I say, “Shubh Diwali!”
