Diwali: The Festival of Light

Graphics by Anika Dua

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of India's most important celebrations. It represents fresh beginnings, as well as the triumph of good over evil. Observed by over a billion people worldwide, it is honored by prayer, feasts, fireworks, family reunions, and gift-giving. The festival dates are determined by the Hindu calendar, which measures each month by the time it takes the moon to orbit the Earth. That usually falls in October or November of the Gregorian Calendar. There is no one origin story for how Diwali started to be celebrated, as each faith has its own interpretations and legends about the holiday. Each of these stories, however, celebrates the triumph of good over evil. 

Diwali is celebrated in a variety of ways. Many people dress up in new outfits and spend time with their relatives. Many homes light Diyas, which are essentially clay lamps, and make Rangoli. Rangoli is a term used to describe geometric designs, religious symbols, or floral patterns made on floors with various materials such as rice powder, brick powder, chalk powder, flower petals, and colored sand. Gifts and sweets are exchanged and prayers are conducted. 

As an Indian, Diwali has been a festival closest to my heart. I always loved making elaborate Rangolis on the staircase of my house and painting clay lamps. But the best part was getting together with my family and celebrating Diwali by praying to our Gods and eating delicious food. I’m glad that at SU, I'll always get to experience a part of that celebration.