The Festival of Lights—what comes to mind when you hear the name? It might not be what you think. Known as Diwali, the Festival of Lights isn’t about fireworks or covering homes in lights; instead, it’s a celebration rich in tradition, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.
Diwali, or also known as Deepavali, is a Hindu festival of lights, with variations depending on other Indian religions. This festival symbolizes the “victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance”.
For Hindus, Diwali is celebrated to symbolize the return of Prince Rama of Ayodhya with his wife, Sita, and brother, Lakshman, for a fourteen year-long banishment and a war in which Prince Rama had won and stood victorious. And so, the people of Ayodhya lit lamps along the way to light their path in/from the darkness.
“During Diwali, we light candles to represent the victory of knowledge over ignorance, reflecting on the festival’s values and history,” SWHS freshman, Astha Tripathy explained.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the name Diya means ‘light’ and the lamps that you light on Diwali are called Diya’s? The name Diya symbolizes enlightenment, knowledge and wisdom.
Another important feature of Diwali is the food. There are various types of sweet and savory dishes to eat, such as Gulab Jamun, Laddu, Samosa, Pankora, and more!
In South India, various dishes such as payasam, sambar, rasam, tamarind rice, chakli, and mixture are enjoyed to celebrate Diwali. The culinary traditions surrounding this festival vary significantly across different countries, showcasing a wide array of dishes and sweets rather than a single specific item.
“In our community, Diwali is celebrated with family gathering, decorating homes with light and rangoli, exchanging sweets and gifts, performing Lakshmi Puja, wearing new clothes, preparing and shaking festive meals, and enjoying firework displaying in the evenings,” South Windsor community member Meghana Kashinath commented.
Fireworks are a vital aspect of Diwali celebrations, symbolizing joy and marking the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Diwali is a vibrant festival that conveys profound meaning and cultural significance. This year, the celebration begins on October 31st and continues through November 1st, inviting everyone to join in the festivities.
