Recognizing Culture, Connection, and Festivity at Work
Diwali—or Deepavali—is a major Hindu festival celebrated by millions around the world. Known as the Festival of Lights, it honors the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and hope over despair. Observed over five days, Diwali is marked by family gatherings, vibrant decorations, the lighting of diyas (oil lamps), and prayers for prosperity and renewal. Looking for a quick, actionable way to acknowledge Diwali? This post gives you a fast, DIY DEI tip you can apply right now.
Why This Holiday Matters
Diwali can be more than just decorative lights and snacks. Here’s how it connects to inclusion at work:
✅ It acknowledges the rich cultural contributions of Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and diverse South Asian colleagues.
✅ It invites space to honor layered meanings—like renewal, reflection, and justice—as experienced by different communities.
✅ It encourages teams to explore how light, family, and hope resonate across identities.
✅ It builds cultural humility by recognizing Diwali beyond stereotype—seeing it as a living tradition.
Bringing this lens into your Diwali observance deepens cultural understanding and belonging.
One Inclusive Celebration Idea
Try this uplifting, inclusive activity to honor Diwali at work:
Host a “Lights of Meaning” Reflection Circle.
Here’s how:
- Invite Personal Reflections: Ask colleagues to share a brief moment when “light”—in a tangible or metaphorical sense—has guided them at work or in life.
- Provide Thought-Starters:
- What does ‘light over darkness’ mean in your personal or cultural story?
- When have you felt hope or renewal in our team or in your work?
- Cultivate an Atmosphere of Respect: Dim the lights, light a few LED candles or fairy lights, and hold a moment of quiet pause to honor reflections.
- Wrap with Connection: Invite participants to silently express gratitude for others’ shared stories—no need for grand gestures; just authentic care.
This circle brings Diwali’s themes into workplace culture, strengthening empathy and connection.
👉 Ready to explore more workplace-ready tips? Keep reading.
Ready for More?
Would you like a more detailed celebration guide for this holiday? 👉 Join our Free Community Here
In our community, you’ll find deeper DIY DEI guides, a full diversity calendar, and workplace-ready tools to help you sustain inclusive, impactful celebrations year‑round.
Pause & Reflect
How could your team bring the themes of Diwali—light, hope, and resilience—into everyday work practices?
