Diwali has all the time discovered its method into among the most beloved Hollywood TV exhibits and movies, that includes heartfelt moments to humorous misunderstandings. Because the Competition of Lights continues to realize recognition world wide, these on-screen portrayals replicate a rising appreciation for South Asian tradition. Here is a have a look at how Diwali has been celebrated, or referenced, in common Western media, from The Workplace to By no means Have I Ever.
1. The Workplace – Diwali (Season 3, Episode 6)
That is probably the most iconic Diwali episode in American TV. Michael Scott (Steve Carell) and the Dunder Mifflin staff attend a Diwali get together hosted by Kelly Kapoor (Mindy Kaling). Michael mistakenly thinks it’s a fancy dress get together and arrives in costume however he ultimately embraces the occasion’s true spirit and ends the night time by proposing to his girlfriend, Carol. Elsewhere, Jim stays late on the workplace and will get concerned in a ingesting recreation with Andy. Pam later reaches out to attach with Jim, however he doesn’t reply.
2. Ms. Marvel – Episode 2
Whereas not solely targeted on Diwali, the present consists of stunning South Asian cultural illustration, together with festive apparel, music and household gatherings that resemble Diwali celebrations. Kamala Khan continues to find and check her new powers with the assistance of Bruno. She goes to a celebration together with her pals and begins to uncover extra about her household historical past via her great-grandmother’s mysterious bangle. In the meantime, her pal Nakia decides to run for a place on the mosque board. Kamala additionally meets the charming Kamran, and later, he is revealed to have a deeper connection to her story when he introduces her to his mom, who seems linked to the bangle. The episode ends with Kamala and Kamran bonding over their shared love of Bollywood, simply earlier than Kamran reveals that his mom has been wanting to fulfill Kamala.
3. Outsourced – Season 1, Episode 8
Outsourced is a rom-com the place a U.S. govt is shipped to India and experiences cultural immersion, together with a good looking Diwali pageant scene. Within the episode, the American supervisor Todd immerses himself within the pageant and positive aspects a deeper understanding of its cultural significance. Desirous to help his staff, he offers his workers time without work to have a good time, selecting to deal with work calls on his personal. Throughout this time, he finally ends up spending the night time together with his Australian colleague, Tonya.
4. Huge Bang Principle – Occasional References
Whereas there’s no full Diwali episode, Raj Koothrappali (Kunal Nayyar) mentions Diwali a number of instances and there is no less than one scene with the gang attending Indian festivities. They sing Bollywood songs like Munni Badnam and reference Indian tradition humorously.
5. The Simpsons – Treehouse of Horror XXVIII
A really brief however vibrant Diwali reference occurs in one of many episodes of Simpsons. It’s a glimpse in a montage-style second. It’s not a full scene, however value a point out for together with Diwali in a popular culture icon like The Simpsons.
6. By no means Have I Ever – Season 2, Episode 4 (…Been a Good Woman)
Devi attends a Ganesh Puja, which has similarities in setting to Diwali with vibrant outfits, household drama and cultural occasions. She makes an attempt to befriend Aneesa, a brand new Indian scholar however issues take a flip when she spreads a hearsay. True however delicate, the hearsay is about Aneesa having an consuming dysfunction. On the identical time, Eleanor sneaks out with Devi and Aneesa to fulfill Malcolm. In the meantime, Devi has an uncomfortable run-in with Ben, who makes it clear he’s nonetheless upset together with her and that their friendship hasn’t been repaired.
7. The Resident (Medical Drama) – Season 2 Episode “00:42:30”
The episode includes a hospital-hosted Diwali celebration with Indian workers and sufferers collaborating. It makes an attempt to indicate variety in medical settings with delicate however respectful Diwali illustration.
Additionally Learn: Diwali Moments in Bollywood Movies That We Can’t Neglect
