Manchester (UK), November 8: Diwali, widely known as the festival of lights, is one of India's most significant cultural and religious celebrations, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Traditionally celebrated with illuminated homes, colourful decorations, prayers and the exchange of gifts, the festival has transcended geographical boundaries, finding recognition and celebration across the world.

Adding to the global celebrations this year, some of the biggest names in international football, including Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea and German powerhouse FC Bayern Munich, extended Diwali greetings to their supporters on Sunday, acknowledging the millions of fans celebrating the festival in India and around the world.

The English clubs took to their respective social media platforms to share festive messages, highlighting the growing cultural connect between international football and its vast Indian fan base.

Manchester United, in an Instagram post, extended its wishes to supporters celebrating Diwali in Manchester and elsewhere across the globe. "To every Red celebrating Diwali across Manchester and around the world, we wish you a wonderful festival," the club wrote.

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Manchester City also joined the celebrations, sharing a festive message for its global supporters. "Wishing all our fans a very Happy Diwali," the reigning English football giants posted on Instagram.

Liverpool, meanwhile, conveyed its greetings through an X post, writing, "Wishing everyone celebrating a very happy and joyous Diwali!"

Chelsea also acknowledged the occasion, wishing its supporters a happy and prosperous festival. "Wishing our supporters who celebrate a happy and prosperous Diwali!" the London-based club posted on X.

However, FC Bayern Munich went a step further, combining its festive greetings with a special cultural initiative. The German club unveiled a Diwali-themed jersey designed in collaboration with Indian artist Abhay Sehgal.

"This Diwali, tradition meets football. Wishing all our fans a Diwali filled with happiness, prosperity and light," Bayern Munich wrote in its post on X.

The special-edition jersey draws inspiration from traditional Indian craftsmanship, incorporating techniques such as embroidery and block printing. The design celebrates the dreams and aspirations of young footballers while bringing Indian artistic traditions into the global footballing landscape.

The jersey was also unveiled to several Bayern Munich first-team players, including England captain Harry Kane, Serge Gnabry and Colombian forward Luis Díaz.

The participation of these prominent European football clubs underlines the growing international recognition of Diwali and the importance of India's massive football-following audience. With millions of supporters following European leagues and clubs across the country, such festive acknowledgements also reflect the increasingly global nature of football's fan engagement.

Diwali festivities began with Dhanteras on November 6, followed by Choti Diwali on November 7. The main festival, along with Lakshmi Puja, is being observed on November 8. Celebrations will continue with Govardhan Puja on November 10 and Bhai Dooj on November 11. (With ANI inputs)