This October, IndoIndians celebrate a double celebration, its annual Diwali Bazaar and the community’s 25th anniversary. To learn more about the story behind IndoIndians and what to expect at this year’s event, The Public Book sat down with Poonam Sagar, Founder of IndoIndians.
- TPB: Please tell us a little bit about yourself and IndoIndians community
PS: I have been living in Indonesia for almost 30 years now. IndoIndians is a platform that connects the Indian community in Indonesia with Indonesia itself. It’s a bridge of information, entirely online, and also through large events we host. It’s a space where people can find authentic and useful information, whether about India for Indonesians, or about Indonesia for Indians living here.
- TPB: Why is it important to have a community where you can feel belonged?
PS: Because information is everything. When people have access to valid and genuine information, they feel supported. IndoIndians provide that. I believe more information is always better than none, it creates a sense of home, of security, and belonging.
- TPB: What will be celebrated during the Bazaar on 5th October 2025?
PS: The Diwali Bazaar celebrates Diwali, the festival of lights, which is India’s biggest festival. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil, and it’s also about feasting, decorating homes, praying, giving, and sharing. At the bazaar, people will find vendors with gifts, decorations, and a food court filled with delicious options. It’s a time to celebrate and connect.
- TPB: What should we expect to see and experience during the bazaar?
PS: We’ll have nearly 200 vendors, offering everything from Indian fashion and accessories to wellness, beauty, and food products you wouldn’t normally find in supermarkets. It’s also the perfect place to sample dishes from Indian restaurants in Jakarta, all in one space.
- TPB: Who should come and visit the bazaar?
PS: Families, definitely. We have a children’s painting competition, plenty of shopping for women and men, and of course, lots of food. There will even be a free beer hour from 4–5 pm and an educational whiskey tasting session, showcasing India’s premium whiskey, Indri. So really, there’s something for everyone.
- TPB:What are your hopes for the event, especially towards the participants and visitors?
PS: The success of such an event lies in the success of its participants. I hope our vendors can connect with buyers and that visitors enjoy the diversity of offerings, from fashion to food to home décor. We want it to be a fun, dynamic day that everyone looks forward to each year.
- TPB:What’s your plan in the near future with the IndoIndians community?
PS: We are focusing on collaborative programs. Our community is growing, becoming more inclusive, and we want to create more opportunities for people to connect. We’ll be hosting more events and working closely with partners to bring meaningful activities to the community.
- TPB:This year also marks the 25th anniversary of IndoIndians. How will you celebrate this milestone?
PS: Yes, IndoIndians has been online for 25 years! To mark the anniversary, we will have a cake-cutting ceremony and special celebrations at the Diwali Bazaar. The Embassy of India in Jakarta is our partner, and they will conduct the lamp lighting and inauguration. We’ve also invited distinguished guests, including Indonesia’s Vice Minister of Culture. And of course, there will be dance and cultural performances to make it a truly festive and high-profile event.
“IndoIndians is more than just a platform—it’s a home where people can find authentic information, support, and a sense of belonging.”
As IndoIndians enter its 25th year, the Diwali Bazaar 2025 is set to be more than just a marketplace. It is a celebration of culture, connection, and community that bridges India and Indonesia. With hundreds of vendors, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities, the event embodies the spirit of Diwali: light, joy, and togetherness.
Taking place on Sunday, 5th October 2025 in Jakarta, the IndoIndians Diwali Bazaar promises a festive day filled with shopping, food, performances, and the warmth of community, an event not to be missed.
