'Operation Diwali': French Embassy Sparks Joy with Playful Festive Video
French Ambassador Thierry Mathou and embassy staff celebrate Diwali with a playful video and traditional lamp lighting to honor India-France ties.
The French Embassy in India has brought a touch of cinematic charm to the festive season, releasing a light-hearted video to mark the French Embassy Diwali celebration. The clip, which highlights the deep cultural connection between France and India, showcases the embassy staff and Ambassador Dr Thierry Mathou getting into the holiday spirit ahead of the festival of lights.
A Secret Mission: 'Operation Diwali'
Posted on X on November 6, the 93-second video takes a creative approach to the announcement of the festivities. Instead of a standard greeting, the clip unfolds like a playful mystery. Viewers see embassy employees engaged in hushed conversations, whispering rumours to one another, frantically checking their emails, and approaching colleagues for confirmation.
The tension builds as the staff attempts to uncover the truth behind the buzz, eventually revealing that the "secret mission"—dubbed "Operation Diwali"—was actually the preparation for their annual celebration.
Lighting the Lamp of Friendship
The video transitions from the playful office antics to the serene and traditional aspects of the festival. Footage captures the lighting of a ceremonial brass diya, beautifully adorned with vibrant marigold flowers, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.
Ambassador Dr Thierry Mathou is seen performing the ceremonial lamp lighting, a gesture that underscores the mutual respect and friendship between the two nations. Along with the visuals, the Ambassador shared a heartfelt message for the occasion:
"Diwali is a beautiful celebration of life, hope and new beginnings. May this festival bring joy to every home and continue to strengthen the bonds of friendship between France and India."
The 2026 Diwali Calendar
The embassy's celebrations precede the main event of Diwali, which falls on Sunday, November 8, 2026, coinciding with Amavasya (the new moon night) in the Hindu lunar month of Kartik.
The festivities span five days of traditional rituals:
- November 6: Dhanteras (The beginning of the celebrations)
- November 7: Choti Diwali
- November 8: Main Diwali and Lakshmi Puja
- November 9: Govardhan Puja
- November 10: Bhai Dooj