Monrovia-Embassy of India celebrated Diwali, the Festival of Lights, on Saturday, 7 November 2026, at the Ambassador’s Residence in Monrovia. The celebration was attended by around 150 guests, including members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of the United Nations and international organisations, distinguished Liberian friends of India and members of the Indian community.
The event showcased India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage and provided an opportunity to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cultural exchange between India and Liberia.
Among the distinguished guests were Mr. Stevenson Tweh Seidi, Deputy Director General for Culture, Heritage and Creative Economy, and Mr. Kekura M. Kamara, Art and Culture Ambassador of Liberia.
Welcoming the guests, Ambassador of India H.E. Mr. Manoj Bihari Verma extended warm Diwali greetings to the gathering and all the members of Indian Community in Liberia. He highlighted the significance of Diwali as a festival that transcends geographical boundaries and brings people together through shared traditions, family values and the universal message of the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
Ambassador elaborated on the significance of the various days associated with Diwali celebrations, including Dhanteras, Chhoti Diwali and the main Diwali festivities. He noted that the lighting of traditional earthen lamps, or diyas, symbolises hope, positivity and the enduring victory of light over darkness.
He also highlighted the magnificent Deepotsav celebrations in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, where millions of earthen lamps illuminate the banks of the sacred River Saryu, commemorating the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile. He noted that the celebrations represent a spectacular expression of India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. He also noted that Diwali has been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List and Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2005.
The evening featured enthralling cultural performances showcasing the charm and richness of Indian dance and music. The performances included a short Ramleela depicting episodes from the epic Ramayana, traditional Diya dances, Garba and a special musical fusion of Indian and Liberian music. The performances were warmly received by the audience and added to the festive spirit of the occasion.
The warm and festive atmosphere at the celebration reflected the growing cultural and people-to-people ties between India and Liberia, with guests from various countries and backgrounds coming together to celebrate one of India’s most popular festivals.
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