Diwali spirit comes alive at Global Village

India pavilion buzzing with activity as mela runs until Thursday

- BY ZAINAB HUSAIN

A group of women from India -- Neha, Shannon, Shubbagi, Aboli and Amrita -- painting a rangoli pattern. They have a five-year contract to do this every Diwali at Global Village.

(Ahmad Alotbi/Gulf News)

Global Village has come alive with colour and celebration as its Diwali festivities run until Thursday, culminating in fireworks shows on Friday and Saturday.

At the heart of the celebrations is a Diwali mela, featuring rangoli-making, vibrant shopping stalls, and a lively crowd soaking in the sights and sounds of the festival.

A group of women — Neha, Shannon, Shubhagi, Aboli and Amrita, all UAE residents originally from India — are carefully painting a rangoli pattern.

“Traditionally, we use col oured powder, but with the wind today, we’re painting it instead,” explained Shannon.