Deepavali, the festival of lights, is one of the most anticipated celebrations in Malaysia. With its rich cultural traditions and vibrant atmosphere, there are countless ways to immerse yourself in the festivities. Whether lighting oil lamps to invite prosperity into your home or preparing traditional sweets with your family, this festival is a time for joy, reflection, and unity.
There are plenty of exciting things to do during Deepavali in 2024. From visiting colourful temples adorned with beautiful decorations to enjoying bustling bazaars, you’ll find plenty of activities that will make the celebration more special. Here are our top 10 best things to do during Deepavali in 2024, which offers a mix of cultural, culinary, and community-based activities that are perfect for spending quality time with loved ones while embracing the spirit of the festival.
- What Does Deepavali Symbolise?
Deepavali symbolises the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Furthermore, it is a celebration of the day Rama returned to his kingdom in Ayodhya with his wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana after defeating the demon Ravana in Lanka and serving 14 years of exile.
- Who Celebrates Deepavali?
Originally a Hindu festival, Diwali is now also celebrated by Jains and Sikhs. It is a major cultural event for the Hindu, Sikh, and Jain diaspora. The Deepavali celebration is widely observed in Malaysia, Singapore, Nepal, and Fiji. In fact, in some countries, Deepavali is a national holiday.
- How Is Deepavali Celebrated?
During Deepavali, people wear their finest clothes and illuminate the interior and exterior of their homes with saaki (earthen lamp), diyas, and rangoli. They also perform worship ceremonies of Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity and wealth, light fireworks, and enjoy family feasts, where gifts are shared.
- What Is The Culture Of Deepavali In Malaysia?
Small clay lamps filled with oil are lighted to signify the triumph of good over evil, and the lights are kept on during the night. Homes are cleaned prior to the festival to welcome the goddess Lakshmi. And of course, shopping and cooking are must-dos but are most likely the most fun activities.
Read more articles below to get you ready for this upcoming Deepavali festival!
10 Best Things To Do During Deepavali 2024
1. Light Up Your Home With Diyas
The homes of those celebrating Deepavali would be lit up with Diyas and bright lights. In Hindu tradition, the lighting of a Diya is an essential part of prayer and signifies purity, goodness, good luck, and power. The presence of light also means the eradication of darkness and evil forces. Therefore, Diyas are lit to weaken those evil forces in every corner of the house.
2. Offer Prayers At Sri Kandaswamy Temple, Brickfields
A serene and spiritual way to celebrate Deepavali is by offering prayers at the Sri Kandaswamy Temple in Brickfields. This historic temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan, is a peaceful place to seek blessings for health, prosperity and happiness. Its intricate architecture and rich cultural significance make it a must-visit during the festival, as devotees gather to honour tradition and embrace the positive energy of Deepavali.
3. Admire The Deepavali Kolam
Traditionally, kolam is said to be drawn to announce auspiciousness. It also conveys that all is well in the household, while its absence implies otherwise. That being said, a kolam is meant to welcome Lakshmi, the Hindu Goddess of Prosperity, into one’s home. The decorative rice motif is usually drawn in front of the house, attracting good luck. It is also a welcome sight for visitors who frequent Deepavali open houses.
4. Have Fun Making Homemade Murukku
Have some fun making homemade Murukku to give to your family and friends. Murukku is a savoury, crunchy Indian snack usually made from rice flour and urad dal flour. The flour is mixed with water, salt, chilli powder, asafoetida, and either sesame seeds or cumin seeds. The mix is kneaded into a dough and shaped into spiral or coil shapes either by hand or extruded using a mould. The spirals are then deep-fried in vegetable oil.
5. Have A Feast With Your Loved Ones
Deepavali is the perfect time to gather around the dining table for a hearty feast with your loved ones. From aromatic biryanis and flavourful curries to sweet desserts like payasam, this is the time to enjoy a spread of traditional Indian dishes. Share stories, laughter, and good food, as the celebration of light and togetherness shines through every meal shared.
6. Exchange Indian Sweets With Family And Friends
Sharing sweets is a sweet way to celebrate Deepavali! From laddus to gulab jamun and barfi, exchanging these delightful treats with family and friends is a tradition that symbolises spreading happiness and good fortune. It’s a simple yet heartfelt gesture that adds a touch of sweetness to your Deepavali celebrations and strengthens the bonds with your loved ones.
7. Shop at Little India, Brickfields
For an authentic Deepavali shopping experience, head to Little India in Brickfields. The streets come alive with colourful decorations, lights, and vibrant stalls selling traditional clothes, jewellery, and festive items. It’s the perfect place to pick up sarees, kurtas, and gifts to complete your Deepavali preparations.
8. Visit the Mesmerising Avatar Secret Garden, Putrajaya
Add a magical touch to your Deepavali celebrations by visiting the Avatar Secret Garden in Penang. This enchanting garden is lit up with thousands of colourful LED lights, creating a stunning, dreamlike atmosphere that feels straight out of a fantasy world. It’s a perfect evening escape for family and friends during the festival.
9. Have A Cruise Trip at Fireflies River, Kuala Selangor
For a serene and magical experience this Deepavali, take a cruise trip along the Fireflies River in Kuala Selangor. As you glide through the calm waters, you’ll be mesmerised by the sight of thousands of fireflies lighting up the night, making it a peaceful and unforgettable way to spend the festive season.
10. Watch Deepavali Cultural Shows with Family and Friends
Immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Deepavali by watching cultural shows with family and friends. These performances showcase traditional dances, music, and theatrical presentations that celebrate Indian heritage and the essence of the festival. Enjoy the colourful costumes and lively rhythms as you come together to appreciate the rich cultural tapestry that Deepavali brings, creating lasting memories and a deeper connection to the celebrations.
Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.asia. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
