Reception
"Diwali" first aired on November 2, 2006 in the United States on NBC during November sweeps week. According to Nielsen Media Research, an estimated 8.8 million viewers watched the episode, and it earned a 4.2/10 ratings share among adults aged 18 to 49. In other words, it was seen by 4.2 percent of all 18- to 49-year-olds, and 10 percent of all 18- to 49-year-olds watching television at the time of the broadcast. This was the series' highest rating since the season premiere. The episode also ranked first in its timeslot among both adults and men aged 18 to 34.
"Diwali" received generally positive reviews from television critics. Entertainment Weekly columnist Abby West thought the episode "hit all the show's major buttons," focusing on Michael while also furthering the Jim/Karen and Pam/Roy storylines as well as showcasing the other characters. West added that "Kaling gets what makes the show work, and she pulled it together while displaying great timing." AOL TV's Michael Sciannamea considered the episode "a classic," though he thought that "the Stamford scenes don't seem to add much to the story other than the burgeoning flirtation between Jim and Karen." Sciannamea concluded that it was "a terrific episode. The scenes inside the hall were hysterical, especially the dancing."
Brian Zoromski of IGN rated "Diwali" 9.3 out of 10, an indication of an "amazing" episode. He wrote that "Michael completely stole the episode with a truly dizzying number of uncomfortable situations. Daily Show vet Steve Carell has become the king of the uncomfortable moment, throwing himself completely into situations viewers know won't end well." Like West, Zoromski also appreciated the other characters' moments, such as Angela's "xenophobic" comments during the festivities. Television Without Pity gave the episode an A grade.
Read more about this topic: Diwali (The Office)
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