Diwali
Diwali (short for Deepavali, meaning 'line of lamps'), also known as the Festival of Lights is a Hindu, Sikh, and
Jain festival that originated in India. It celebrates the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. Diwali
also signifies many different things to different people. For most Hindus, Diwali is dedicated to the Goddess of
Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. In Bengal, Diwali honours the goddess Kali. For Sikhs, the
festival commemorates the return of the sixth guru to the Holy city of Amritstar after his release from
detention. For the Jain community, it commemorates the passing into Nirvana of Mahavira. It also may be the
beginning of a new year for farmers who plant their crops after Diwali, as well as for businesspeople and
merchants who traditionally settle all accounts on this day and begin the new financial year. Everywhere it is
celebrated, it signifies the renewal of life.
To celebrate this joyous and important festival, people get together with friends and family, exchange gifts of
sweets and greet each other with the words 'Subh Diwali’. Some set off fireworks and wear new clothes. Many
light little clay lamps, called dipas or diyas, candles and even neon lights.
To all those celebrating Diwali, we would like to wish you and your families a very happy celebration.
