Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time for joy and celebration for millions around the world. It’s a festival that transcends religious boundaries, bring families and communities together in a vibrant tapestry of tradition, rituals, and festivities.
The Essence of Diwali:
Diwali marks the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. It commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile and the vanquishing of the demon king Ravana.
Diwali:
Hinduism and India are both vast and encompass a very diverse mix of languages, traditions, and deities, hence, the celebration of Diwali differs for every family with a few common threads.
The preparation for Diwali begins a week in advance with a deep clean of your house to make space for wealth and prosperity. This is followed by ‘Dhanteras’ where families buy new utensils and/or jewellery replacing or adding to their family collections.
On the day of Diwali, the festivities begin by wearing new clothes, visiting families and friends with gifts, and decorating your own home. At sunset, families gather to worship Goddess Laxami and then light divas and burst firecrackers in celebration. The lights symbolise the triumph of light over darkness and the dispelling of ignorance and negativity.
How I celebrate Diwali by Surabhi Miah, Brightwwell Fundraising Team Member
“Before making the UK my home, I grew up in New Delhi, the capital of India, and celebrated Diwali alongside my grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. In Bristol, we continue the traditions with friends of Indian and non-Indian heritage.
At sunset in India, my family consisting of my husband and twin daughters adorn our festive clothes and join my family in India via facetime as my mother leads the prayers. This allows all of us to be together and is a tradition I have been following since I moved to the UK at the age of 19.”
Beyond the Festivities
Diwali is a festival that reminds us of the power of light, the importance of good over evil, and the eternal hope for a brighter future. As the divas illuminate our homes and streets, may they also illuminate our hearts and minds with love, peace, and prosperity.
Everyone at The Brightwell wishes a very Happy Diwali to all those in our Brightwell, Bradley Stoke and our wider communities, who are celebrating this week.
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