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Festival of Lights
By Gurlal, 11-11-2019
Meaning of Diwali
Indian communities all over the world celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights,
every year between mid-October and mid-November. It is a 5-days festival that
tells you about the triumph of light over darkness. The origin of word Diwali
can be found in Sanskrit word Deepavali where ‘deepa’ means ‘light’ and ‘vali’
means ‘row’, thus a row of lights which is exactly what is seen in homes during
this time.
Celebrating Diwali
During the 5-days period, peoples houses are lit up by ‘diyas’ (earthen candles
or small oil lamps). The exterior of houses is decorated by electric lights. Inside
the house you can mostly find ‘Rangoli art’ (pattern drawn on floor with colour
powder or rice). According to the customs and traditions people used to lite
diyas in front of their shops and homes. In some parts of world, especially in
India, beautiful display of fireworks draws people to the streets to honour Lord
Rama and his wife Sita. In different regions of India, the version of fireworks
may be different. Neighbours exchange gifts and often sweets or dried fruits.
Some Background Information
Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains, each of these groups honours
some historical figures. The Hindus, for instance, honour the memory of Lord
Rama and his wife Sita, according to the legend, Lord Rama defeated an evil
king called Ravanna and returned to their kingdom in northern India after 14
years. This happened in 15th century B.C. The Sikhs, Diwali is particularly
important for Sikhs because it celebrates the release from prison of the sixth
guru, Guru Hargobind, and 52 other princes with him, in 1619.
The Sikh tradition holds that the Emperor Jahangir had imprisoned Guru
Hargobind and 52 princes. Therefore, at the night on this day people keep the
doors and windows open, thereby inviting Lakshmi to spread wealth and good
luck.
It is also a time when all Indian buy new clothes just to welcome new
beginnings, and almost the year ahead.
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It’s about Light
In conclusion, the very essence of Diwali is to bring light in, to experience the
triumph of good over evil forces. The festival of lights does just that, it lights up
homes and the hearts of communities all over the world. It celebrates
everything that is good, kind and positive.
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