Diwali has always found its way into some of the most beloved Hollywood TV shows and films, featuring heartfelt moments to humorous misunderstandings. As the Festival of Lights continues to gain recognition around the world, these on-screen portrayals reflect a growing appreciation for South Asian culture. Here’s a look at how Diwali has been celebrated, or referenced, in popular Western media, from The Office to Never Have I Ever.
1. The Office – Diwali (Season 3, Episode 6)
This is the most iconic Diwali episode in American TV. Michael Scott (Steve Carell) and the Dunder Mifflin team attend a Diwali party hosted by Kelly Kapoor (Mindy Kaling). Michael mistakenly thinks it’s a costume party and arrives in costume but he eventually embraces the event’s true spirit and ends the night by proposing to his girlfriend, Carol. Elsewhere, Jim stays late at the office and gets involved in a drinking game with Andy. Pam later reaches out to connect with Jim, but he doesn’t respond.
2. Ms. Marvel – Episode 2
While not entirely focused on Diwali, the show includes beautiful South Asian cultural representation, including festive attire, music and family gatherings that resemble Diwali celebrations. Kamala Khan continues to discover and test her new powers with the help of Bruno. She goes to a party with her friends and begins to uncover more about her family history through her great-grandmother’s mysterious bangle. Meanwhile, her friend Nakia decides to run for a position on the mosque board. Kamala also meets the charming Kamran, and later, he’s revealed to have a deeper connection to her story when he introduces her to his mother, who appears linked to the bangle. The episode ends with Kamala and Kamran bonding over their shared love of Bollywood, just before Kamran reveals that his mother has been wanting to meet Kamala.
3. Outsourced – Season 1, Episode 8
Outsourced is a rom-com where a U.S. executive is sent to India and experiences cultural immersion, including a beautiful Diwali festival scene. In the episode, the American manager Todd immerses himself in the festival and gains a deeper understanding of its cultural importance. Wanting to support his team, he gives his employees time off to celebrate, choosing to handle work calls on his own. During this time, he ends up spending the night with his Australian colleague, Tonya.
4. Big Bang Theory – Occasional References
While there’s no full Diwali episode, Raj Koothrappali (Kunal Nayyar) mentions Diwali multiple times and there’s at least one scene with the gang attending Indian festivities. They sing Bollywood songs like Munni Badnam and reference Indian culture humorously.
5. The Simpsons – Treehouse of Horror XXVIII
A very short but colourful Diwali reference happens in one of the episodes of Simpsons. It is a glimpse in a montage-style moment. It is not a full scene, but worth a mention for including Diwali in a pop culture icon like The Simpsons.
6. Never Have I Ever – Season 2, Episode 4 (…Been a Perfect Girl)
Devi attends a Ganesh Puja, which is similar in setting to Diwali with colourful outfits, family drama and cultural events. She attempts to befriend Aneesa, a new Indian student but things take a turn when she spreads a rumour. True but sensitive, the rumour is about Aneesa having an eating disorder. At the same time, Eleanor sneaks out with Devi and Aneesa to meet Malcolm. Meanwhile, Devi has an uncomfortable run-in with Ben, who makes it clear he’s still upset with her and that their friendship hasn’t been repaired.
7. The Resident (Medical Drama) – Season 2 Episode “00:42:30”
The episode features a hospital-hosted Diwali celebration with Indian staff and patients taking part. It attempts to show diversity in medical settings with subtle but respectful Diwali representation.
Also Read: Diwali Moments in Bollywood Films That We Can’t Forget
By Kavita Mistry 
