Diwali: the Festival of Lights!

Diwali is the five-day Indian festival of lights, celebrated during the Hindu Lunisolar month Kartika. This year, it will start on November 14.

The word Diwali is derived from a Sanskrit word deepavali, meaning “rows of lighted lamps.” This event celebrates the return of deities, which are gods and goddesses. Hindus mainly honor Rama-Chandra, the seventh avatar (incarnation of the god Vishnu).” It is believed that on this day Rama returned to his people after 14 years of exile during which he fought and won a battle against the demons and the demon king, Ravana” (Indian Student Association).

People lit things like their houses to symbolize light over darkness, and celebrate his victory. Diwali celebrations vary in different communities but its significance and spiritual meaning is generally “the awareness of the inner light” (Facebook).

Millions of Hindus across the world have different ways of celebrating Diwali. Across India streets and temples are decorated with spectacular light displays and colorful garlands (Diwali Festival).

According to Festival of Lights, for the very first day people eat a special breakfast often consisting of foods like Samosas, Pakoray, Mathiyaa, Ghathiya and Aloo Tikki. Food is a very important aspect throughout celebrating Diwali as it is a joyful time. Everything eaten should be treated with respect as they believe it is a gift from God.

People also pray on that first day and the Hindu goddess Lakshmi’s statue is carried throughout the streets in procession, according to timeanddate.com. From there people start with gift exchanges, families visiting each other for feasts, and the essential fireworks.

OfficeHolidays.com tells us that “the sound of firecrackers exploding is common as the noise is said to drive away evil spirits… Families, friends and business associates exchange gifts and sweets, settle old business deals, and are encouraged to rid themselves of hate.

Diwali is a celebration for the Hindu community, it is a festival focused on rejoicing and renewal and should be taken very seriously.