Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, celebrated Diwali by lighting up with vibrant designs and a festive message. The display included the words “Happy Diwali” in both English and Hindi, sharing wishes for joy, health, and prosperity. Netizens admired the gesture, praising Dubai for embracing diverse cultures. Social media was flooded with videos of the illuminated tower, with many calling it a stunning tribute to the Festival of Lights. This year, Diwali celebrations extended globally, with iconic landmarks like New York’s One World Trade Center also joining in to honor the festival’s spirit of unity and light.

The U.S. Treasury has imposed sanctions on 19 Indian companies, labeling them “Third-Country Sanctions Evaders” for supplying dual-use technology to Russia. This is part of a larger action targeting nearly 400 entities globally for supporting Russia. India’s Ministry of External Affairs declined to comment on the sanctions, marking the largest U.S. action against Indian companies linked to Russia. A recent call between India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and U.S. NSA Jake Sullivan addressed regional security and cooperation, but did not mention the sanctions. India has previously stated it does not recognize unilateral sanctions.

In British Columbia, Canada’s largest drug "superlab" has been dismantled by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), arresting Gaganpreet Randhawa, an Indian-origin businessman linked to an international crime network. The superlab, found in rural Falkland, housed sophisticated equipment for producing fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and MDMA. RCMP seized over 500kg of drugs, including 54kg of fentanyl valued at $485 million, enough to produce 95 million lethal doses. The raid also uncovered firearms and explosives. RCMP's extensive investigation, supported by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), marked a significant victory against organized crime.

In a new security report, Canada has labeled India as a "cyber adversary" for the first time, placing it alongside China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. The National Cyber Threat Assessment 2025-2026, released by the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, accuses Indian state-sponsored actors of espionage against Canadian government networks. The report suggests India uses cyber capabilities to pursue national security goals and promote its global influence. This designation follows escalating diplomatic tensions, with recent expulsions of diplomats by both countries. India previously dismissed Canada’s accusations of interference as "absurd" and politically motivated.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau extended Diwali wishes while acknowledging tensions with India due to recent diplomatic disputes. Trudeau expressed solidarity with Hindu Canadians, celebrating the Indo-Canadian community's contributions. His message follows recent friction sparked by his accusations of India’s involvement in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Additionally, Canadian MP Chandra Arya raised concerns about Hindu Canadians' safety amid escalating extremism, urging government recognition of the threat. Meanwhile, opposition leader Pierre Poilievre clarified that changes to the Diwali event in Ottawa were logistical, not cancellations, amidst rising tensions with India.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese celebrated Bandi Chhor Divas at Gurdwara Sahib Glenwood on November 1, wearing a traditional turban as a mark of respect. He opened the gurdwara's expanded kitchen, which serves thousands of meals weekly. Bandi Chhor Divas commemorates Guru Hargobind Sahib's release of 52 Hindu princes from Gwalior Fort in 1619. Albanese shared photos on X, wishing the Sikh community a happy Bandi Chhor Divas. The Prime Minister's visit highlighted Australia's cultural diversity and inclusiveness. Albanese's gesture of wearing a turban demonstrated his commitment to interfaith dialogue and community engagement.

Pakistan's intelligence agency, directed by Chinese counterparts, is collecting sensitive information about Jammu and Kashmir's Chenab Bridge, sources reveal. The world's tallest railway bridge, connecting Reasi and Ramban districts, recently began trials to enhance regional connectivity. Pakistani and Chinese agencies have gathered crucial data on the bridge, sparking security concerns. This development comes as India strengthens its infrastructure in the region. The bridge's strategic importance has made it a target for espionage, highlighting tensions between India and its neighboring countries.

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti participated in Diwali celebrations at the New Delhi embassy, showcasing his enthusiasm for Indian culture. On Wednesday, Garcetti took the stage, dressed in a brown kurta and shades, and performed a lively Bhangra dance to the popular Hindi song 'Tauba Tauba' from the movie 'Bad Newz'. The audience cheered as he grooved to the tune. This gesture follows his recent attendance at Durga Puja celebrations in Delhi's CR Park, demonstrating his willingness to engage with Indian traditions.

In a vibrant celebration of unity, Hindu artists Jignesh Patel and Yash Patel, both Guinness World Record holders, unveiled a mural titled "We all laugh and cry in the same language." Painted on the walls of Triple S AutoCare, the mural showcases flags from various countries, symbolizing global harmony and shared humanity. The community art project encouraged participation from local families, children, and individuals, making the mural a true reflection of Slough’s cultural diversity.   Prominent local figures, including Slough Mayor Balwinder Singh Dhillon, Slough Council Leader Dexter Smith, and MP Tan Dhesi, attended the unveiling, alongside council members Cllr Ezaz Ahmed, Cllr Chandra Muvvala, and Cllr Ifftakar Ahmed. The Indian Diaspora in the UK (IDUK Group) supported the initiative, inviting families to paint flags of their choice, fostering a sense of community and inclusion.   “This mural reflects the values of togetherness and inclusivity,” said IDUK representatives Hirdesh Gupta, Ajay Murudkar, and Alok Gupta. Paresh Shah, owner of Triple S MoT Center, remarked that the mural will remain a permanent symbol of Slough’s dedication to multiculturalism and communal harmony. This initiative highlights the town’s ongoing efforts to bridge cultures and promote peace through art.

The White House military band performed the beloved Hindu aarti 'Om Jai Jagdish Hare' during Diwali celebrations hosted by President Joe Biden on October 27. International Monetary Fund's First Deputy Managing Director, Gita Gopinath, shared a video of the performance, expressing her delight on X. "Wonderful to hear the White House military band play Om Jai Jagdeesh Hare for Diwali. Happy Diwali," she posted. Over 600 guests attended, including Congressman Shri Thanedar and US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy. President Biden acknowledged the contributions of South Asian Americans in his administration, marking the event’s cultural significance.