Today, Sunday, November 8, communities around the world are welcoming Diwali, widely known as the Festival of Lights. The NA Times sends warm wishes to everyone celebrating. May this special occasion bring peace, happiness, prosperity and new beginnings to you and your loved ones.
What Is Diwali?
Diwali, also called Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in South Asia and across the global diaspora. The name is commonly understood to mean a “row of lights.” The festival is associated with the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
For many Hindus, Diwali is connected with stories of Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya and the lighting of lamps to welcome him home. Other Hindu traditions place special emphasis on Lakshmi, the goddess associated with wealth and prosperity. The holiday also carries distinct meanings for other communities: Jains commemorate the spiritual liberation of Mahavira, Sikhs mark Bandi Chhor Divas, and some Buddhist communities observe their own traditions.
Traditions That Bring the Celebration to Life
Although customs differ from place to place, many Diwali celebrations include lighting small clay oil lamps called diyas, decorating homes with colorful rangoli designs, sharing sweets and festive meals, wearing new or special clothes, exchanging gifts, and gathering with family and friends. For many, prayer and reflection are also important parts of the occasion.
Diwali is often observed over several days, with each day carrying its own customs and significance. Together, the celebrations create a season centered on hope, renewal, generosity and togetherness.
A Message from The NA Times
To all those celebrating Diwali here in New York City and around the world: Happy Diwali! May the lights shine brightly in your homes and hearts, and may the year ahead bring good health, success, joy and lasting peace. We wish you and your families a beautiful and meaningful celebration.
Photo credit: The photographs accompanying this article are by Abhijit S. Rehpade (CC BY-SA 4.0) and Siddarth Varanasi (CC BY 2.0), via Wikimedia Commons. Image credits and license details are provided with the photographs.
Learn more: Incredible India — Diwali · Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art — Diwali