Kerala's Thrissur Sees 'Surprisingly High' Diwali Celebrations Amidst Rising National Trend

Thrissur, Kerala – Diwali celebrations in Thrissur have reached "surprisingly high" levels, signaling a notable shift in the state's traditional observance of the festival of lights. This increased enthusiasm aligns with broader national trends of heightened consumer spending and evolving cultural practices across India. The observation, shared on social media by user Rishi, suggests a growing embrace of Diwali festivities among Malayalis.

Traditionally, Diwali has been a more subdued affair in Kerala compared to other Indian states, with Onam holding primary cultural significance. Historical and mythological reasons, including a different interpretation of the Narakasura legend and the absence of a large business community traditionally associated with Lakshmi worship, contributed to this. However, recent years have witnessed a gradual but steady increase in Diwali celebrations, particularly in urban centers and areas with diverse populations.

This change is attributed to the influence of North Indian communities, increased exposure to national media, and the commercialization of festivals. Thrissur, often recognized as Kerala's cultural capital, has been at the forefront of this shift, experiencing a growing enthusiasm for the festival. "This is surprisingly high by Thrissur's standards. I guess Malayalis are finally celebrating Diwali now," stated Rishi in a recent tweet, highlighting the perceived acceleration of this trend.

The growing popularity of Diwali in Kerala has also spurred economic activity. Retailers and businesses statewide have reported a surge in sales during the festive season, with consumers purchasing new clothes, gifts, and decorative items. This mirrors a national trend where India's retail sector recorded historic Diwali trade, reaching an unprecedented ₹5.40 lakh crore in goods and an additional ₹65,000 crore in services in 2025, according to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT).

This evolving tradition in Kerala reflects a broader societal change, where regional identities are increasingly intertwined with national cultural expressions. While Onam continues to be the most significant festival for Malayalis, Diwali is steadily carving out a more prominent space in the state's festive calendar, bringing with it renewed joy and prosperity.