Simone Anderson
This month saw one of the most celebrated holidays in our country, Diwali. The five day celebration brings with it many great traditions. Houses decorated with candles, fireworks lighting up the sky, treats being made and gifts being given.
The word Diwali means series of lights and celebrates the triumph of light over darkness. It celebrates the legend of the Hindu God, Rama, and his wife Sita returning home after defeating the demon, Rava, during the new moon. To celebrate their return, the people began to hang up lamps and light candles to help light the way back. Hence the reason it is the festival of lights.
Temple President of Bhaktivedanta Manor, Srutidharma Dasa, said, “Diwali is traditionally a time for families to come together – it gives us an opportunity to give, forgive and to be grateful. It is a time when we think about giving to others – helping those who are less privileged than ourselves. And, by forgiving others it grants us an opportunity for new beginnings.”
It wouldn’t be the festival of lights without fireworks. Fireworks add to the appeal of Diwali by letting everyone participate in the tradition, whether they celebrate the day or not. No matter what age or religion you are, you are bound to enjoy the beauty of the night sky on Diwali. While there is some controversy concerning the topic like the environmental and animal cruelty issues, fireworks have cemented itself in Diwali traditions.
To those who celebrate and even to those who don’t, happy Diwali.
