Diwali Celebrations at Global Village Dubai: A Cultural Fest

The vibrant festivities of Diwali are in full swing at Global Village in Dubai, offering a unique blend of cultural celebration and commercial activity. Running until October 23, the event features a variety of activities, including rangoli-making, shopping stalls, and spectacular fireworks displays, drawing crowds eager to experience the festival’s rich traditions.

A Colorful Celebration

At the heart of the Diwali celebrations is a lively mela, where visitors can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the festival. A group of women, including Neha, Shannon, Shubhagi, Aboli, and Amrita, are seen painting intricate rangoli patterns. “Traditionally, we use coloured powder, but with the wind today, we’re painting it instead,” Shannon explained. The group has a five-year contract to create the rangoli each Diwali, aiming to complete their artwork by the festival’s end. “It’s really fun to create it and have people watch and ask questions; it’s our way of sharing our culture with the world,” she added.

Vendors Share Their Stories

The Diwali mela is not only a cultural showcase but also a hub for commerce and community. Many vendors travel from India each season, often spending significant festivals away from their families. Sanjay Mathur, a vendor from Gujarat who has participated in Global Village since its inception in 1997, shared his experience. “I started when Global Village was still in its early days. Over the years, it has grown enormously in size and popularity,” he noted. “It’s hard to celebrate Diwali away from family, but Global Village has become like my family. I’m used to it now.”

Meena Bhatt, who has been selling traditional jewellery since 2017, echoed this sentiment. “My heart is with my family, but I really enjoy selling my items here and interacting with people from all over the world. You don’t feel lonely or homesick while you’re here,” she said.

Strong Footfall and Diverse Offerings

The India Pavilion has seen a surge in visitors, especially over the recent weekend, as shoppers prepared for the Diwali festivities. Ravi Bhatt, a vendor specializing in artificial gold-plated jewellery, reported a busy weekend with a diverse clientele. “We had many customers, both Indian and international. Indian shoppers usually buy our gold-plated pieces, while visitors from other countries prefer silver, diamond, or lighter designs,” he explained. Prices for these items range from Dh100 to Dh500, depending on the material and design.

Another vendor, Abdul Sitar, who has been selling saris and textiles for nearly 20 years, highlighted the popularity of his products. “Our sequin saris and Kashmiri handwork textiles are our most popular items for Diwali,” he said. His colleague, Mohammad, noted that they are offering discounted rates for the season, making it an attractive time for shoppers.

An Immersive Experience

Global Village provides a colorful and immersive Diwali experience for both residents and visitors. From the vibrant rangoli-making to the bustling shopping for festive décor and jewellery, the event showcases the rich cultural heritage of India. For the vendors, it is an opportunity to celebrate their traditions, connect with the public, and transform the festival into a vibrant display of culture and community in the heart of Dubai.

FAQs

What activities are available during Diwali at Global Village?

Visitors can enjoy rangoli-making, shopping for traditional items, and watching fireworks displays, creating a festive atmosphere.

How long do the Diwali celebrations last at Global Village?

The Diwali festivities run until October 23, culminating in special events and fireworks on the final weekend.

Are the vendors at Global Village primarily from India?

Yes, many vendors at Global Village during Diwali come from India, showcasing a variety of traditional products and crafts.

Conclusion

The Diwali celebrations at Global Village highlight the vibrant culture and community spirit of the festival. With a mix of traditional activities and commercial opportunities, the event not only brings joy to attendees but also fosters connections among vendors and visitors alike. As the festivities continue, the focus remains on celebrating heritage and building community in Dubai.

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