Despite austerity, Diwali in Oman is a time to celebrate

MUSCAT: Residents in Oman celebrating Diwali this year can still enjoy a memorable celebration if they do so together.

Oman’s economic situation means people are unwilling to spend money on luxuries, but CM Sardar, vice chairman of the Indian Social Club (ISC), says a community celebration is best for everyone, in more ways than one.

“There is a way to balance expenses this Diwali,” he said.

“All the people who belong to one group or community can pool their expenses together and organise some entertainment, so people don’t have to spend too much money, and they can enjoy with their friends and relatives. Here, we have more friends than relatives, so that is the easiest way to celebrate.

“Diwali without sweets is no festival, it is almost like celebrating Christmas without a tree,” added Sardar. “I think there should be full-fledged celebration and people should enjoy, but within limits: there shouldn’t be too much wastage, for example. Some people don’t buy sweets because other people give them, but I think everyone should buy some, at least for their religious functions at home.”

In the wake of decreasing spending power, Oman’s oldest and biggest sweet vendor, Bombay Sweets, has also seen residents drastically cut back on orders. Although they were celebrating their silver jubilee last year, Bombay Sweets’ business was hit rather badly. “Last year, we sold about two to three tonnes of sweets and about 15,000 pieces of certain items, which is about 50 to 60 per cent of our business,” said Ali Asghar Wajihi, the director of Bombay Sweets. Full story @ timesofoman.com/oman