Women’s Diwaniya showcases Indian dance, textiles and traditional crafts, highlighting cultural links between India and Kuwait
The Embassy of India in Kuwait hosted a special Diwali celebration for women at India House on November 3, bringing together Indian cultural traditions and Kuwaiti heritage through performances, fashion, handicrafts and traditional hospitality.
The event, hosted by Indian Ambassador Paramita Tripathi, was part of a two-day Diwali Diwaniya celebration marking 65 years of diplomatic relations between India and Kuwait. The programme highlighted shared values of hospitality, togetherness and community engagement.
The women’s gathering featured dance performances, including Kathak fusion presentations by local Indian artists, offering participants an insight into India’s classical and contemporary performing arts.
A fashion presentation showcased Indian textiles through contemporary designs inspired by Kuwaiti couture. Models presented creations incorporating Indian fabrics and craftsmanship, reflecting elements of both countries’ fashion traditions.
Guests also participated in traditional Indian activities, including mehndi (henna) application and saree draping, providing an opportunity to experience aspects of India’s cultural heritage.
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The celebration included Indian cuisine, regional delicacies, arts, handicrafts and tourism displays
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Festive decorations and traditional lighting, combined with a Diwaniya-inspired setting, created an atmosphere reflecting the cultural traditions of India and Kuwait
A key attraction was an exhibition of Indian handicrafts under the Government of India’s One District One Product (ODOP) initiative, which promotes distinctive products and traditional craftsmanship from different districts across India.
The display featured blue pottery, decorative lamps, intricate filigree work and paintings, highlighting the skills of Indian artisans and the importance of preserving traditional art forms.
The Embassy acknowledged the support of Indian Heritage in organising the celebrations.
The wider Diwali Diwaniya programme brought together the festive spirit of Diwali and Kuwait’s traditional Diwaniya, a social gathering centred on hospitality and dialogue. The celebrations underscored the role of cultural exchanges in strengthening people-to-people relations between the two countries.
Both Diwali and the Kuwaiti Diwaniya were inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2025, adding significance to the joint celebration.
