Harmony in Contrast: Celebrating Deepavali and Halloween Together in Shared Spaces?

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As we approach the dual celebration of Deepavali and Halloween, we find ourselves at an intersection of tradition, community, and commerce. In conversations with friends celebrating Deepavali, as well as within hash.peace, I've noticed a genuine concern: how the spirit of Deepavali, a day of profound significance, might feel overshadowed by the more commercialised celebration of Halloween. This isn’t about a minority voice "complaining"—it’s about the natural sentiment of seeing one’s most meaningful day of religious and cultural identity dimmed by an event focused on costumes and fun. This feeling is both valid and deeply understandable. So, if you encounter friends sharing these reflections on social media, take a few moments to empathise. Consider how it might feel if the significance of your own most cherished celebration were diminished in shared spaces.

At the same time, there is value in recognising that Halloween has brought families, friends, and neighbours together in Singapore. This trend of increased Halloween celebrations seems relatively recent, at least to me, yet I see its strength in fostering social cohesion at the micro level—within neighbourhoods, schools, and workplaces. Halloween offers valuable opportunities for communal fun, and these moments are indeed precious. It is, after all, the eve of All Saints’ Day, a feast commemorating all holy (“hallowed”) people, which adds a layer of depth to the festivities beyond costumes and treats.

The question, then, is how two festivals—one honouring the victory over darkness, and the other embracing the thrill of it—might coexist harmoniously in shared spaces. Perhaps this is where meaningful dialogue comes in, a chance for stakeholders to discuss ways that honour both celebrations respectfully.

Personally, I hope for more visible efforts to celebrate Deepavali throughout Singapore—in neighbourhoods, shopping centres, and community spaces. But this isn’t only about public displays; it’s also about individual intention and initiative. Friends could organise an outing to the Indian Heritage Centre or explore other spaces that highlight Deepavali’s significance, with the purpose of learning more about this tradition. Equally, learning about Halloween’s origins and connection to All Saints’ Day could add to a more nuanced understanding of this modern-day celebration. Efforts to understand one another are especially important, given the challenges minority communities may face in gaining visibility in broader cultural spaces.

Tomorrow, as we celebrate both Deepavali and Halloween, let’s approach these occasions with empathy, sensitivity, and a commitment to multiculturalism. It’s an opportunity to reflect and perhaps, at both individual and community levels, take small steps to enrich the experience for those celebrating Deepavali and those enjoying Halloween.

Thanks to everyone who has engaged in dialogue with me on this topic; most importantly, heartfelt thanks to my hash.peace members who create space for critical discussions and embrace diverse views. I learn and reflect through these dialogues, which help me understand the gaps we need to fill for greater social harmony.