Diwali, also known as Divali or Deepawali, is celebrated over five days, with the festival starting today on Monday, 24 October.
Most famously known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is celebrated by over a billion people across the world. Whilst it is deeply rooted in Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, and Jain religious tradition it has become a secular holiday in India and across the world.
There is no single origin story for the festival with each religion having its own historical narrative, however they ultimately represent the victory of good over evil, and light over dark.
At Diwali it is tradition to decorate and illuminate homes, visit the local temple for prayers and share meals with families and friends.
“In our house we light Divas (tea lights) in every room of the house, prepare and share tasty Indian food and sweets, visit the Gurdwara (Sikh temple) and then end the night by lighting some sparklers. Like many other festivals from across the world, we treat the day as an occasion to come together with our family and friends to celebrate the good deeds of those who have come before us” – Bhupindar Siran, Chair of the REACH Network.
If you would like to know more about Diwali as celebrated by Hindus and Sikhs please watch the video produced by the UOS REACH Staff Network.
More details about the network and how to join can be found on the REACH SharePoint page
Priti Dave, Hindu Faith Advisor, shared a message for our community:
“Happy Diwali to one and all.
Here’s hoping this Diwali brings great peace, good health and happiness as we celebrate this beautiful festival of lights.
Let’s be together as one voice sharing the message of the victory of good over evil in all walks of life.
Let our lives be filled with the positive energy of the universe and let us live together in peace and harmony.”
