Golu in Nashville, Nov. 9 -- Diwali is no longer just a festival celebrated in India. With the Indian diaspora spread across continents, its spirit is increasingly visible and felt across nations. From homes and temples to public squares, city centres and community gatherings, the lights, colours, music and festivities bring a little piece of India to every corner of the world.

Across time zones and oceans, families and communities come together to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, hope over despair and good over evil. Wherever Indians have made their homes, Diwali travels with them, carrying traditions, memories and a sense of belonging. What is particularly remarkable is how these traditions have taken root in unfamiliar su...