Celebrate Diwali: The Festival of Lights

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is November 10-15 this year. Diwali marks the harvest and the start to the new year, celebrating victory, love, and togetherness.

The holiday is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Newar Buddhists, with each faith celebrating in slightly different ways. Diwali is a religious holiday and, as such, it is not confined by political boundaries. In addition to India, countries that celebrate Diwali include Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, and the United States. 

While cultural traditions vary, here is an example of how Diwali celebrations unfold: 

On the first day, homes are cleaned and a new item for the home is purchased to welcome good fortune. Beginning the second day, clay lamps and rangolis, colorful floor designs drawn using rice flour, chalk, flower petals, or other natural materials, are used to decorate and brighten the home. The third day, the darkest night of the lunar month, is the main event when prayers and religious rites take place, followed by fireworks and feasting. The fourth day, considered the start of the Hindu New year, is when gifts are exchanged between friends and families. The fifth and final day celebrates Bhai Dooj, the bond between brothers and sisters.

• You can celebrate Diwali: Festival of Lights at the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose; November 11
• RSVP for the SCU Swadés on-campus Diwali Celebration; November 18, 5:30 p.m.
• View the SCU Intandesh Instagram to see how this club celebrated Diwali on campus

To those who celebrate, we wish you and your family a very auspicious and joyful Diwali.

 

 

Is there an international holiday you would like to see featured in an upcoming newsletter? Fill out this form and let us know why it is important to you and how you will be celebrating it this year. We will give primary consideration to international holidays from countries that have not already been highlighted.