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From light to fright: Indian Americans merge Halloween and Diwali traditions
As they navigate the duality of their lives, influencers Priya and Roshni agree on one essential message regardless of the occasion: it’s about authenticity and joy.
Priya Jani Patel and Roshni Shah are embracing a unique convergence of cultural celebrations on Oct.31. / Courtesy Photo
As Diwali, the vibrant Festival of Lights coincides this year with Halloween, the night of spooks, Indian-Americans like Priya Jani Patel and Roshni Shah are embracing a unique convergence of cultural celebrations on Oct.31.
For Priya, a beauty content creator, this overlap is both a logistical challenge and an opportunity to celebrate her Indian roots with a creative twist. Meanwhile, Roshni, a travel creator who highlights Indian cuisine and festival traditions, sees the blend as a chance to spread joy and teach her children about inclusivity.
New India Abroad spoke with these two influencers, who each shared a fresh perspective on balancing Diwali’s message of light and renewal with Halloween’s playful spirit.
The overlap of traditions
Priya notes the unique nature of Halloween and Diwali falling on the same day this year. “With the five days of Diwali and Halloween overlapping, it feels like a true mashup of cultures,” she says. She and her husband have created household “ground rules” to keep each tradition distinct. “We had to sit down as husband and wife to decide how we would distinguish which days are dress-up days for Halloween versus Indian festive wear.”
Roshni, based in the US for over 16 years, echoes this sentiment, maintining that both holidays are equal opportunities for celebration. “It doesn’t matter where we come from; we are all the same from inside,” she says. For her, both festivals bring positivity, whether it’s through Diwali’s spiritual light or Halloween’s community fun.
Priya Jani Patel remembers Diwali as a family affair, centered around prayers and celebrations. / Courtesy PhotoCultural nuances and childhood memories
Priya, who grew up in Canada, remembers Diwali as a family affair, centered around prayers and celebrations at the BAPS mandir. "We’d skip school to spend the day with family, praying and eating delicious food," she recalls. These memories have shaped how she celebrates now, with Diwali decorations lasting through New Year’s, blending both festive and cultural decor in her home.
For Roshni, Halloween’s Western influence is equally important. “After being in the USA. for over 16 years, festivities here are part of our lives. But that does not take away our Indian roots.” She celebrates Halloween as a playful way to connect with her American community, while Diwali remains a chance to pass down her Indian heritage to her children.
Teaching balance and inclusivity
Priya talks about the importance of Diwali’s message of light over darkness, especially for her children. "Staying true to the message of Diwali is essential. I want my kids to appreciate the festival’s essence." While she plans to skip trick-or-treating this year, Priya’s family will celebrate Halloween early, letting her toddler dress up for daycare festivities before shifting focus to Diwali traditions at home.
Roshni, on the other hand, has always celebrated both holidays, teaching her children to appreciate different beliefs. "It is very important to remember our roots, but it is equally important to grow and move forward toward positivity and the future," she says. For her, both Halloween and Diwali are opportunities to instill values of kindness and unity in her children.
Roshni Shah's home decked up in Diwali and Halloween decor. / Courtesy Photo
Creating blended traditions
Despite their contrasting themes, Roshni finds unity in both festivals. “Halloween and Diwali may be different, but deep down, they still celebrate people, hope, family, the harvest season, the beginning of winter, and positivity.” This year, she plans to decorate her house with Diwali diyas and Halloween inflatables, embracing the festive spirit of both holidays.
Priya adds a humorous note, observing how social media posts this year playfully imagine blending the holidays—like giving out mithai to trick-or-treaters or the “horror” of uninvited relatives. “People are getting creative,” she laughs. It’s this lighthearted approach that has helped her integrate both cultures over the years.
The rising recognition of Diwali
Both influencers welcomed Diwali’s increasing visibility in US. Roshni reflects on how Diwali is now celebrated in places like the White House, with popular stores carrying Indian sweets and decor, signaling a broader acceptance of the festival. "Most places are very accepting and amazed to learn about Indian culture—its vibrant colors, events, dresses, décor, and celebrations," she observes.
Priya agrees, adding that she often uses her beauty content to bridge cultural gaps. "Fashion and beauty have been great for bridging these worlds. We can integrate our culture and play with non-Indian customs, breaking barriers along the way."
Priya uses her profession as a beauty coach for messaging around the two festivals. / Courtesy PhotoEmbracing the duality
As they navigate the duality of their lives, Priya and Roshni agree on one essential message: it’s about authenticity and joy. “I don’t love doing every viral trend,” Priya admits. "The point isn’t to create perfect décor or a gourmet meal—it’s about enjoying the time spent celebrating."
Roshni echoes this sentiment, viewing life as a blend of traditions and joy. “We may not live in India, but India lives in us here in America. Celebrations may have different ways, but they all bring one thing to our lives—joy. And joy has no boundaries, religion, or name.”
For those navigating this overlap for the first time, both women offer simple advice: stay true to what feels meaningful. "Life is not complicated—it is something to cherish and be grateful for," Roshni advises. This Diwali and Halloween, as lights shine and costumes delight, Priya and Roshni invite everyone to celebrate with open hearts—because, as they say, why not?
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