Happy Diwali

Diwali, also known as Divali, Deepawali or ‘the festival of lights’, is India’s most exuberant festival of the year. It’s a time to rejoice in the triumph of light over darkness and is celebrated widely by a number of faiths, including Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists.

The festival is marked by prayers, worship, sweet delicacies, fireworks and family gatherings.

For Hindus, Diwali signifies the return of Lord Rama along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman after 14 years in exile. Diyas, or oil lamps, are lit in honour of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and fortune. The lighting of the oil lamp symbolises the dispelling of darkness and the coming of light.

At the same time, Sikhs celebrate Diwali to commemorate the release from prison of the sixth guru, Guru Hargobind, who was imprisoned in the early 1600s. As part of the celebration, also known as Bandi Chor Diwas, Sikhs will go to Gurdwaras, Sikh temples, for worship and light candles and fireworks.

In Jainism, Diwali commemorates the anniversary of Lord Mahavir's attainment of freedom from the cycle of reincarnation. It is a celebration of his teachings and contributions not only to the religion but to greater humanity.

Diwali is also marked by some Buddhists who consider it to be the day the Emperor Ashoka converted to Buddhism.

In spite of differences in Diwali celebrations across faiths, the core message remains the same: rejoice in your inner light. We wish you a Diwali that brings happiness prosperity and joy to you and all your family.