A festival rooted in ancient traditions carried a message of shared humanity as communities and diplomats gathered for Diwali Across Borders 2026, celebrating how light, friendship and culture can bring people together.
Organized by the Indian Cultural Association of the Philippines (ICAP), the October 31 celebration at the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia embraced the theme “Across Borders 2026 – One World. One Light.” Through music, dance and cultural performances, the gathering highlighted friendship and cultural exchange among communities from ASEAN and BRICS nations.
At its heart was Diwali’s enduring message—the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
Also called Deepavali, a name meaning “a row of lights,” Diwali is one of Hinduism’s most significant festivals. Celebrated in October or November according to the lunar calendar, it brings families and communities together for worship, festive meals, gift-giving and the lighting of traditional oil lamps called diyas.
The festival has ancient roots and several origin stories, reflecting the diversity of the communities that observe it. In northern India, a prominent tradition recalls Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya with Sita after defeating Ravana, with lamps illuminating their homecoming. Other traditions celebrate Krishna’s defeat of the demon Narakasura or honor Lakshmi, the goddess associated with prosperity and abundance.
Diwali also holds significance beyond Hinduism. Jains commemorate Mahavira’s spiritual liberation, while Sikhs observe the release of Guru Hargobind from imprisonment. These distinct traditions give the season meanings that extend across religious communities.
Celebrations commonly span five days, combining spiritual reflection with family gatherings. Homes are cleaned and decorated, colorful rangoli patterns brighten entrances, and sweets and gifts are exchanged. The rituals express gratitude, renewal and hopes for a prosperous future.
In Manila, ICAP brought that spirit into a broader conversation about cooperation across cultures.
“This year’s theme, ‘Across Borders—One World. One Light,’ brings together the ASEAN and BRICS communities in a shared spirit of unity. Through this celebration, we bring ASEAN cooperation and BRICS partnership together under one light,” said Dr. Mili Dhingra, ICAP president.
Members of the diplomatic corps joined the festivities, led by Indian Ambassador Harsh Kumar Jain, accompanied by his wife, Vandana Jain, and son, Akarsh Jain.
Also attending were Malaysian Ambassador Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino; Brazilian Ambassador Gilberto Moura; Myanmar Ambassador Ei Ei Tin; and Lao Ambassador Thiphasone Sengsourinha.
Indonesia was represented by Victorina Hesti Dewayani, deputy chief of mission and chargé d’affaires ad interim. Huang Yaping, counselor in charge of cultural affairs, represented Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan, accompanied by cultural section diplomats Zhu Bei and Li Xiaolong.
Philippine officials present included Lilian M. De Leon, assistant secretary for international relations at the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Peter Eric D. Pardo, chief of staff of the Pasay City Mayor’s Office.
The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce (Phil.) Inc., Indian Business Federation, Bharati, Indian Women Enterprise and the Filipino Indian Commerce & Welfare Society Inc., also joined the Diwali celebration.
Also present were Indian Ambassador to the Philippines Harsh Kumar Jain, accompanied by Vandana Jain, and Gen4Juan Chairman and Executive Director Peter Pardo.
FICCI commended ICAP for organizing a gathering that strengthened friendship and cultural understanding.
For the Indian community in the Philippines, the occasion offered an opportunity to share a cherished tradition. For the wider audience, it was an invitation to discover its meaning—and to see how a festival of lights can illuminate common ground across borders.
