"Stay With Me Forever": EU Ambassador Jean-Eric Paquet Embraces First Diwali in India
EU Ambassador Jean-Eric Paquet shares his heartfelt experience celebrating his first Diwali in India, highlighting the spirit of togetherness.
Celebrating his first EU Ambassador first Diwali in India, Jean-Eric Paquet has expressed deep admiration for the Festival of Lights, describing the experience as a memory that will remain with him for a lifetime. The European Union Ambassador shared his joy and cultural discovery through a heartfelt message and video, capturing the essence of one of India's most cherished festivals.
A Visual Celebration of Tradition
In a recently shared video, Ambassador Paquet is seen fully immersing himself in the festive spirit. Dressed in traditional blue Indian attire, he appeared amidst a vibrant setting adorned with rose petals and marigolds. The video captures a poignant moment as he lights a lamp positioned before a statue on a beautifully crafted rangoli, signaling the start of his celebrations.
Reflecting on the magic of the occasion, Paquet noted that the beauty of the festival transcends description.
"So, my first Diwali, this will stay with me forever,"he remarked, adding that while many may ask how to explain Diwali, the only true way to understand it is to live it personally.
Unity in Diversity
The Ambassador did not celebrate alone; he shared the festivities with the European Union delegation. He highlighted the unique composition of his team, noting that members come from various parts of India, which adds a layer of diversity to the celebration.
According to Paquet, this blend of backgrounds enhances the sense of togetherness during the party. He expressed his eagerness to explore the different facets of the festival, specifically mentioning his excitement for:
- The glow of the lights
- The spirit of togetherness and fun
- Meaningful cultural exchanges
- The delicious festive food
A Personal Touch
Adding a charming and personal touch to his greeting, Ambassador Paquet used the video to connect with the local audience by asking how to say "Happy Diwali" in Hindi in a friendly manner, showcasing his desire to integrate and connect with the culture.
Taking to social media, he described the experience as "truly beautiful," citing the warmth, laughter, and lights as memories he will cherish. He extended his warm wishes for a joyful Diwali to everyone.
The 2026 Diwali Calendar
The celebrations took place during a five-day window in November 2026. The festivities began with Dhanteras on November 6 and concluded with Bhai Dooj on November 10. The peak of the celebration, Diwali and Lakshmi Puja, occurred on Sunday, November 8, coinciding with the Amavasya Tithi (new moon night) of the Hindu lunar month of Kartik.
Other key dates in the celebration included Choti Diwali (or Kali Chaudas) on November 7 and Govardhan Puja (or Annakut) on November 9.