Mainstream Media is the best trainer for critical thinking - almost all you see are differences between cultures & countries - but did you know there is a huge bunch of similarities between traditions in Chinese New Year & in Indian New Year (Diwali)? I bet you'll find it fascinating by the end of this section:
 

1. Both Are Celebrated with Firecrackers & Lights

• Chinese New Year: Firecrackers, fireworks, and red lanterns are used to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune.

• Diwali: Diyas (lamps) and fireworks symbolize the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.

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2. Red and Gold = Auspicious Colors

• Chinese New Year: Red symbolizes luck and prosperity, and gold represents wealth.

• Diwali: People wear red, gold, and yellow to invite Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth).

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3. Giving Money in Red Envelopes vs. Shagun

• Chinese New Year: All Married Elders give hóngbāo (red envelopes) filled with money to children for luck.

• Diwali: Elders give shagun (auspicious money gifts) to younger family members.

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4. Family Reunions Are the Heart of Both Festivals

• Chinese New Year: The biggest travel rush in the world happens during Chunyun, when people go home for family dinners.

• Diwali: In India, people travel back to their hometowns for family feasts and pujas.

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5. Deep Cleaning Before the Festival

• Chinese New Year: Homes are cleaned before the festival to sweep away bad luck and welcome good fortune.

• Diwali: People clean and decorate their homes to welcome Goddess Lakshmi and bring prosperity.

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6. Special Sweets and Dishes for Good Fortune

• Chinese New Year: Dumplings (for wealth), sticky rice cakes (for progress), fried sweet sesame crunch (for happiness & joy) and oranges (for good luck).

• Diwali: Sweets like ladoos, kaju katli, and jalebi symbolize happiness and prosperity.

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7. Prayers and Offerings for Blessings

• Chinese New Year: People visit temples and make food offerings to ancestors.

• Diwali: Families perform Lakshmi Puja and offer sweets to gods.

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8. Zodiac Animals vs. Rashis

• Chinese New Year: Each year is linked to a zodiac animal (e.g., Dragon, Tiger, Rabbit).

• Diwali: Many Indians follow Rashi (zodiac signs) for new beginnings and auspicious rituals.

 

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And thats not it! There are so many more different beliefs, customs & rituals that both culture shares which are not well-known. One thing i've always find so interesting: when you look at differences the world will show you terrible things; but when you look for shared interests, the world is actually ONE. 

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