As Diwali festivities begin around the world, Toronto marked a significant milestone by declaring October 20, 2025, as the city’s inaugural Diwali Day. This proclamation, made by Mayor Olivia Chow, signifies a historic recognition of the festival within the city’s cultural calendar.
Celebrating Diwali in Toronto
Rinku Shah, the CEO and founder of the Diwali Festival of Lights in Toronto, expressed her excitement about the official acknowledgment. “We have been waiting for this proclamation for the past two years, and now it is finally here,” Shah shared, highlighting the dedicated efforts of her team. The mayor emphasized the importance of Diwali, stating it as a celebration of light overcoming darkness and hope prevailing over despair.
Significance of Diwali
Diwali, renowned as the Hindu festival of lights, spans five days and is observed by various communities, including Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists. The festival, derived from the term “Deepavali,” which means “a row of lights,” is typically celebrated in late October or early November, based on the Hindu lunar calendar.
Embracing Diversity
During her speech at city hall, Mayor Chow highlighted that celebrating cultural diversity is essential for fostering belonging within the community. “It’s not just about the singing, dancing, and food. It’s about who we are as a city and as a country,” she stated, promoting the importance of inclusiveness.
Chow’s acknowledgment of past cultural challenges resonates with many in the South Asian community. She recalled a time when immigrants in Toronto felt compelled to hide their cultural identities. Today, she believes that inclusivity has become a defining strength of the city.
City’s Official Recognition
The official proclamation by the city underscores the contributions of the South Asian community to Toronto, emphasizing “Diversity our Strength” as a central motto. This historic step reflects the city’s commitment to embracing all cultures.
Community Celebrations
- Date of Proclamation: October 20, 2025
- Location: Toronto City Hall
- Community Involvement: Attendance by city councillors Neethan Shan, Rachel Chernos Lin, and Dianne Saxe.
In addition to the Toronto celebrations, nearby Brampton planned a family-friendly Diwali event featuring a fireworks display, demonstrating the widespread appreciation for this festival across the region.
