31/10/2024
Best wishes of Diwali to ALL! May the divine light of Diwali spread into your life peace, prosperity, happiness, and good health.
The word Diwali is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Deepavali’, which means "row of lights," which devotees light outside their homes during the festival to represent the light that guards against spiritual darkness and symbolize good over evil.
"The light from these lamps symbolizes the illumination within all of us, which can overcome ignorance, represented by darkness.
The lights are also meant to honor and invite Goddess Lakshmi, who is associated with agriculture and abundance to enter and bless our homes, temples, and other public spaces.
For Sikhs, meanwhile, Diwali celebrates sixth Guru Shri Hargobind Singh, who serves as a source of inspiration and a symbol for freedom. The Guru when incarcerated in prison by the Muslim emperor Jehangir, refused to leave prison without the other 52 political prisoners being released and the Emperor had to relent. The day of Diwali celebrates his release, along with the other political prisoners he fought for. Sikhs celebrate this day as ‘Bandi Chhor Diwas’, and will also go to the Gurdwara to pray and meditate, light diyas and set off fireworks.
