Diwali, the 'festival of lights,' is celebrated by over a billion people worldwide across various faiths, including Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists. While its origin stories vary, they all share a common theme: the victory of good over evil and light over darkness.
Hear from Pritika Garodia, a 3rd Year student in BSc Applied Medical Sciences, as she shares how she celebrates Diwali as a Hindu and keeps its spirit alive, even thousands of miles away from home.
Diwali, the festival of lights, represents more than just a celebration—it's a time for family, traditions, and embracing the warmth of home. For those of us celebrating away from loved ones, the experience feels a little different. Join me as I share how I hold onto the spirit of Diwali, recreating the joy and connection of this cherished festival across oceans and borders
The Hindu Story Behind the Celebration
Diwali or Deepavali is a Hindu festival of lights, celebrated over 5 days. It signifies the trump of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. It marks the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya, his hometown after 14 years of exile. We worship Lord Ganesh and Lord Laxmi during this festival. It also marks the beginning of a new year according to the Hindu calendar.
How I Celebrate Diwali
Diwali is the biggest festival, and I look forward to it every year. In India, celebrations start one month prior, with cleaning every nook and corner of the house, mom making snacks and sweets for relatives and friends, new clothes being ordered, trips to the tailor, and loads of shopping for the different rituals.
The whole city is lit up and you can hear laughter from every house. The 5 days of the festival are filled with visits to relatives, Diwali parties, offering prayers, eating loads of sweets and the most fun part of them all, bursting crackers.
Although it's overwhelming, I try to celebrate it the best way possible. I decorate my room with diyas, attend Diwali events across London, go out for a good Indian meal and even go for a fireworks night all decked up in Indian attire!
Recreating the Festive Spirit on campus and in London
For anyone celebrating away from home this year, decorate your space. Treat yourself to good traditional dishes. Get together with other Indians who celebrate. Attend the different Diwali events happening on campus throughout the week or visit the numerous events happening across the city and be a part of your family rituals through video call. That's what I do to be a part of the festivities.
I wish you all a very happy and prosperous Diwali filled with warmth, love and joy!