Diwali - Festival of Lights

Taken from the 2017 Black History Month Gallery

Observed with prayers, firework displays, the exchanging of gifts and family feasts, Diwali is a joyous festival celebrated by millions of people across the world every year. The festival is predominately observed by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains, with its main theme as the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Also known as the Festival of Light, houses are decorated with candles known as divas and colourful lights along with patterns made from coloured powder known as Rangoli.

What is Diwali? The festival coincides with the Hindu New Year and is seen as an opportunity for self-improvement, representing new beginnings. Diwali is significant for various reasons. For many, Diwali celebrates the legend of Lord Rama and his wife Sita returning to their kingdom in northern India from exile after defeating the demon king Ravana in 15th century BC. Diwali also pays tribute to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and lanterns are lit to guide her into people's homes.

The Sikh Community also celebrate Diwali because on this day the 6th Guru, Guru Hargovind arrived at the Golden Temple Amritsar after being held captive by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. He was released along with 52 Hindu kings from Gwalior Prison. The day is celebrated as a Bandi Chhor Divas.

When is Diwali? The five-day celebration occurs annually in October or November; the exact dates are dependent on the Hindu lunar calendar. This year the actual day of Diwali will take place on Thursday 19th October. Celebrations carry on until the fifth day when ‘Bhaiyadooj’ or feast to brothers is observed. Here sisters invite their brothers to a meal, which includes their favourite dishes. The whole ceremony signifies the duty of a brother to protect his sister, as well as a sister’s blessings for her brother.

How is Diwali celebrated? Diwali is marked by huge firework displays, which recall the celebrations believed to have taken place upon Lord Rama’s return. Traditional earthen diyas or candles are lit, and houses are decorated with colour. During the festival, families and friends share sweets and gifts and there is also a strong belief in giving to those in need. It is also traditional for homes to be cleaned and new clothes to be worn. Indian sweets which come in a range of colours and flavours are also eaten during the celebrations, as well as various rich savoury and sweet dishes.

In addition to India, Diwali is celebrated in many countries but more visible where there is a large Indian diaspora such as in Canada, US, Australia, South Africa, East Africa, Surinam, Fiji islands, Mauratius, Guyana, and in the United Kingdom amongst others. The most famous place for Diwali celebration in UK is on the ‘Golden Mile’ in Leicester where a large Indian community lives. There is also a large annual event celebrating Diwali in Trafalgar Square London.

Locally here in Wokingham and Reading, Diwali is celebrated at the Local Hindu temples, and Sikh Gurdwaras. Some Community Groups organise Dinner and dance and Cultural programs during the festival period.

For the full gallery go to: www.wokingham.gov.uk/bmeforum