Diwali: a festival of joy, family and togetherness
Diwali, often referred to as the "Festival of Lights," is a time of great joy and celebration for millions of Indians around the world. The festival holds deep cultural and spiritual significance, marking the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance.
According to the Indian Hindu lunisolar calendar, Diwali typically falls between mid-October and mid-November. The festive period lasts for five days, with each day celebrated for its unique traditions and stories.
The first day, Dhanteras, is for welcoming wealth and prosperity, often by buying new things.
The second, Naraka Chaturdashi, celebrates the defeat of the demon Narakasura.
The third day is the main celebration, Lakshmi Puja, dedicated to the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
The fourth, Govardhan Puja, honours Lord Krishna's feat of lifting a mountain.
And the fifth and final day, Bhai Dhuj, celebrates the special bond between siblings.
While the specific customs and traditions might vary across regions and communities, the underlying spirit of Diwali remains the same: bringing in love, light and celebrating life.
The symbolism of light and mythology
One of the most prominent aspects of Diwali is the symbolic lighting of diyas (small clay lamps filled with oil) and the dazzling display of electric lights. These lights aren't just for decoration; they represent the removal of darkness and the welcoming of positivity and prosperity into homes and lives. Here in Australia, you'll often see homes and businesses in our local communities adorned with vibrant lights and colourful decorations, creating a truly festive atmosphere.
Beyond the illumination, Diwali is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. For many, it commemorates the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana to their kingdom of Ayodhya after a 14-year exile, during which Rama defeated the demon king Ravana. In other parts of India, Diwali is also associated with worshipping Dhanvantri, the god of Ayurveda, and Ganesh, the god of wisdom, praying for health, knowledge and new beginnings.
Family and community connections
Family and community are at the heart of Diwali celebrations. It's a time for families to come together, often travelling long distances to be with loved ones. Homes are carefully cleaned and decorated and elaborate feasts are prepared. Sharing sweets (mithai) and savoury snacks is an integral part of the festivities, fostering a sense of togetherness and goodwill. Exchanging gifts is also a widespread practice, signifying love and appreciation. The celebration of Bhai Dhuj on the fifth day is a wonderful tradition that honours the bond between siblings.
For our Indian community in Australia, Diwali is more than just a religious festival; it's a vital opportunity to connect with their cultural heritage, share their traditions with others, and build bridges of understanding within our multicultural society. We often see vibrant Diwali celebrations organised by community groups, showcasing traditional music, dance, and food, offering a window into the rich cultural tapestry of India.
At Cultural Perspectives, we value and respect the diverse cultural backgrounds of our team and the wider community. We recognise the significance of festivals like Diwali and share in the joy they bring, learning more about different traditions and customs. These celebrations have helped us foster a more inclusive environment, helping many of us connect to our roots while sharing our stories with our peers.
As the lights shine brightly this Diwali, let us also illuminate our community's values of compassion, unity and goodwill. We wish everyone celebrating a very happy and prosperous Diwali!
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