Diwali lights up Munyonyo as Indian, Ugandan communities celebrate unity

Speke Resort Munyonyo was transformed into a colourful celebration of Indian culture, food, music and tradition as the Indian and Ugandan communities gathered to mark Diwali, the Festival of Lights, on Sunday, November 1, 2026.

The celebration brought together people from different cultural backgrounds for an evening of entertainment and cultural exchange, highlighting the growing friendship and longstanding ties between Uganda and India.

Diwali, one of the most important festivals in Hindu culture, symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. Traditionally, the festival is marked by prayers, family gatherings, sharing meals, exchanging gifts and welcoming prosperity and new beginnings.

The Ugandan delegation led by Vice Presidet Jesicca Alupo poses for photos with members of the Indian community ( Credits: Moses Nsubuga)

Held under the theme “Vivid Culture, United Together for a Bright Future”, the celebrations attracted several prominent Ugandan and Indian personalities, including Vice-President Jessica Alupo, Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs Minister Minsa Kabanda, Indian Association in Uganda chairman Paresh Mehta and Hon. Sanjay Tanna, alongside members of the diplomatic community and other invited guests.

Food was one of the evening's major attractions, with more than 100 stalls offering guests an opportunity to sample India's rich culinary heritage. From butter chicken and biryani to naan, roti, samosas, snacks and traditional sweets, the spread offered a delicious journey through India's diverse food culture.

Food was one of the main attractions at the Diwali festival. ( Credits: Moses Nsubuga)

Beyond the flavours, the food reflected one of Diwali's central traditions: sharing and welcoming others. Guests mingled as they sampled different dishes, turning the occasion into a celebration of friendship as much as culture.

At 8:20pm, the celebrations reached a spectacular moment as fireworks illuminated the sky above Speke Resort. The dazzling display symbolised the victory of light over darkness and commemorated the return of Lord Rama from exile, a significant story associated with Diwali.

There was a full house attendance at the Diwali festival. (Credits: Moses Nsubuga)

The entertainment programme added colour and energy to the evening, with cultural performances, traditional dances and music offering guests a glimpse into India's vibrant artistic heritage.

However, one of the night's biggest highlights came when Indian Idol star and backup singer Abhishek Kumar took to the stage. His electrifying performance drew cheers from the audience and kept the excitement alive, giving revellers another reason to celebrate.