Acknowledged as one of the principal tourist destinations of the state of Gujarat and famous amongst the nature lovers and the honeymooners, Diu is a sparkling and cheerful union territory of India where people from diverse geographical, religious and cultural backgrounds have been cordially dwelling over the centuries. As Diu was held in the custody of the Portuguese till 1961, the culture of Diu manifests a perfect amalgamation of Kathiawari and Portuguese lifestyles. The inhabitants of Diu are very affable and hospitable and they believe in enjoying the life to its fullest. The citizens of Diu like to watch movies and plays, go for a stroll, play cricket and spend time with their family and friends. Even though the chief religion of the island is Hinduism, considerable number of Christian and Muslim population is also found here. The most spoken tongues of Diu are Gujarati, Hindi, English and Portuguese. The traditions and customs followed in Diu are very much alike Gujarati people whereas the culture of Diu reveals Indian, European and tribal fundamentals. Diu is an impeccable incorporation of ancient and modern, traditional and contemporary. Most of the region of Diu Island is urbanized and nearly 47% of the total population belongs to the well developed parts of the province.
All the Indian festivals are celebrated with unlimited zest and fervor at Diu. The integral part of Diu ethnicity is comprised of dance and music. One of the most adored and awaited festival is the Navaratri Festival which is celebrated for nine days in the Ashwin month of Hindu calendar. During these nine days both men and women dance to the tunes of dhol with unmatched enthusiasm. Apart from that other festivals celebrated at Diu are Makarsankranti, Holi, Krishna Janmashtami, Rakhi, Diwali, Idd, Christmas, New Year etc.
Diu is particularly famous for its annual ‘Diu Festival’ organized by the tourism department in the month of December. This ten days public fair draws hordes of domestic as well as international tourists to this land every year. Lately in December 2011, Diu Festival celebrated its Golden Jubilee Year. Chief events organized at the Diu Festival include cultural programs, folk dances and songs, other forms of dances, Ras Garba, different competitions like musical chair, Rangoli, salad decoration, poster making, fancy dress, various matches, races, exhibitions, and workshops so on and so forth.
Folk Dance Festival is yet another not to be missed dimension of Diu culture when along with variety of dances one gets the unbelievable opportunity to eyewitness the live performances of Mando, Verdigao and Vira Folk Dances. And to top it all, Diu is also a home to thrilling and audacious beach activities like Para sailing, surfing, swimming etc. Sunbathing, walking along the beaches and hiking around the tiny island of Diu are also much loved activities of the tourists.
