Diwali is more than fireworks, laughter, and joy. It is known as the festival of lights, and it translates to “row of lights” The lighting of candles is meant to keep evil spirits from entering the home and celebrate hope in the community. Each place around the world has its reasons for celebrating. In Northern India, it was celebrated because of King Rama’s return after defeating Ravana, who abducted his wife, by lighting candles. In Sikhism, it is celebrated because it was the day Guru Hargobind Singh Ji was freed from imprisonment. Buddhists also celebrate Diwali. The story differs depending on where you live and on your religion.
Diwali is celebrated in 5 days. The 1st day is when people clean their homes and shop for gold utensils for good luck. On the 2nd day, people decorated clay lamps and created patterns called rangoli, which are created on the floor with flours or sand. On the 3rd day (which is the main day of festivities) families gather together for Lakshmi puja, a prayer to the goddess Lakshmi, followed by food and fireworks. The 4th is the new year, where friends and families gather to wish each other. The 5th day is when brothers visit their married sisters, who are greeted by lavish meals. As you can tell, Diwali is a fun-filled tradition with a very religious background meaning. However, it is celebrated differently in many places. After speaking with a local Downsview community member, Jaspreet Basra, he mentions how this celebration is much different in India. He says “In India, we gathered in really big packs, and with Covid, it’s harder but anyway, we went to Amritsar (golden temple) and we lit divas. And instead of just family and friend gatherings, we gathered with the whole community. Here in Canada, it’s still good, but I just wish the communities would unite and pray as one.”
Diwali is a world-renowned festival. It has grown and not only united India but the world and many cultures alike celebrate Diwali. Who knew the festival of lights can unite us all around the world and in this community.