What's the problem if Diwali is celebrated as a week-long celebration and public holiday? After all, there are week long Christmas and Eid holidays in many countries of the world. Just as Hindus and Muslims celebrate Christmas, and Hindus and Christians join in Eid festivities, there is absolutely no reason Muslims and Christians can't enjoy Diwali, too. No one really has an issue if there is a festive break -- it is only when some people turn it into a issue that it becomes one. The issue isn't having a week-long holiday for Diwali, but with recognising that our country is diverse in religion and cultures and cannot be defined by north Indian cultural dominance. In several south Indian states, Diwali isn't celebrated with the same intensity as it is in the North India , and that diversity must be respected. It is also unfair to diminish other holidays such as Easter or Labour day or any other festival related to other religions as they too hold significance especially in India and for that reason our country is known for its unity in diversity.
