Happy Diwali
Today is the Hindu Festival of Lights known as Diwali.
Jean and I, when taking our dog Diesel for his evening walk around 9.30pm, saw the sky burst in brightness of exploding fireworks. We later saw some displays from our back garden 🙂
Diwali – Festival of Lights
Millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world will celebrate the five-day festival of lights The festival this year, which marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year.New beginnings are celebrated with the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. The actual day of Diwali is traditionally celebrated on the festival’s third day, which this year falls on Thursday, October 23. The festival usually falls between the middle of October and the middle of November, although this is decided upon by the Hindu lunar calendar.
While each of the above faiths has its own reason to celebrate the festival, one of the most popular stories told is about the legend of Lord Rama and his wife Sita who return to their kingdom in northern India from exile after defeating the demon king Ravanna in the 15th century BC.
How is Diwali celebrated?
Large and noisy firework displays are held this evening to remember the celebrations which, according to the legend is when locals set off their own version of fireworks to celebrate Rama’s return. Those celebrating the festival also light traditional earthen diyas (candles). They clean and then decorate their houses with colourful rangoli artworks – patterns created on the floor using coloured rice or powder. During Diwali, families and friends gather at one of the homes to share sweets and gifts. There is also a strong belief in giving food and goods to those in need
What is eaten during Diwali?
Indian sweets, which come in a variety of colours and flavours are served. The celebration also features various rich savoury and sweet dishes.Families will mostly prepare food at home for when guests arrive to partake and exchange gifts and watch the fireworks. Some may chose to eat out at Indian etc.,restaurants While many of us have a traditional roast turkey at Christmas, each family celebrating Diwali will more than likely have its own favourite meal, which is central to the celebrations.