Diwali has all the time discovered its manner into a few of the most beloved Hollywood TV exhibits and movies, that includes heartfelt moments to humorous misunderstandings. Because the Pageant of Lights continues to realize recognition all over the world, these on-screen portrayals mirror a rising appreciation for South Asian tradition. This is a have a look at how Diwali has been celebrated, or referenced, in widespread Western media, from The Workplace to By no means Have I Ever.
1. The Workplace – Diwali (Season 3, Episode 6)
That is essentially the most iconic Diwali episode in American TV. Michael Scott (Steve Carell) and the Dunder Mifflin group attend a Diwali occasion hosted by Kelly Kapoor (Mindy Kaling). Michael mistakenly thinks it’s a dressing up occasion and arrives in costume however he finally 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 sport with Andy. Pam later reaches out to attach with Jim, however he doesn’t reply.
2. Ms. Marvel – Episode 2
Whereas not totally centered 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 associates and begins to uncover extra about her household historical past by way of her great-grandmother’s mysterious bangle. In the meantime, her good friend 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. government is distributed 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 features a deeper understanding of its cultural significance. Desirous to help his group, he provides his workers day off to rejoice, selecting to deal with work calls on his personal. Throughout this time, he finally ends up spending the night time along with his Australian colleague, Tonya.
4. Massive Bang Idea – 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 quick however vibrant Diwali reference occurs in one of many episodes of Simpsons. It’s a glimpse in a montage-style second. It isn’t a full scene, however price 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 Excellent Woman)
Devi attends a Ganesh Puja, which is analogous 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 similar 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 encompasses a hospital-hosted Diwali celebration with Indian employees and sufferers collaborating. It makes an attempt to indicate variety in medical settings with refined however respectful Diwali illustration.
Additionally Learn: Diwali Moments in Bollywood Films That We Can’t Forget
