Celebrating Diwali
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most celebrated and cherished festivals in Hindu
culture and holds profound significance for millions of people around the world. Diwali is a celebration of light, symbolizing the triumph of knowledge and righteousness over darkness and ignorance. The lighting of oil lamps (diyas), candles, and colourful electric lights illuminates homes, streets, and public spaces, creating a dazzling spectacle of brightness and joy. The symbolic significance of light extends beyond the physical realm, representing the inner light of wisdom, compassion, and spiritual awakening
that dispels the darkness of the mind.
The origins of Diwali can be traced back to ancient India, where it originated as a harvest festival
marking the end of the agricultural season. Over time, the festival evolved to incorporate various
religious, cultural, and historical elements, including the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king
Ravana as recounted in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. Diwali also holds significance for Sikhs, Jains,
and Buddhists, who celebrate the festival for different reasons, further enriching its cultural
tapestry.
Diwali is marked by a myriad of customs and traditions that vary across regions and communities.
Some common rituals include:
- Cleaning and Decorating Homes: In preparation for Diwali, homes are thoroughly cleaned
and adorned with colourful rangoli (decorative designs made from coloured powders),
flowers, and decorations to welcome the goddess Lakshmi, who symbolizes wealth and
prosperity.
- Puja and Worship: Families gather to perform puja (worship) ceremonies to honour deities
such as Lakshmi, Ganesha, and Saraswati, seeking blessings for prosperity, success, and
spiritual well-being.
- Exchanging Gifts and Sweets: Diwali is a time of giving and sharing, with families exchanging
gifts, sweets, and delicacies as tokens of love and goodwill.
- Fireworks and Celebrations: The night of Diwali is marked by fireworks displays, music,
dance, and festive gatherings, creating a jubilant atmosphere of joy and celebration.
While Diwali holds deep religious significance for Hindus, it is celebrated with equal enthusiasm by
people of various cultural and religious backgrounds. In countries such as India, Nepal, Sri Lanka,
Malaysia, and Fiji, Diwali is a national holiday celebrated with grandeur and festivity. Diaspora
communities around the world also observe Diwali, maintaining cherished traditions while adapting
to local customs and contexts, making it a truly universal festival that unites people across borders
and boundaries
Rotary Junior Community Awards (RJCA) Important Dates:
Wednesday 13 November - Presentation Barbecue at ASPS Presentations at 5.00pm
Gippsland Rotary Golf Classic 25:
The following arrangements have been confirmed -
Date: Monday 24 March
Venue: Yallourn Golf Club
Raffle Sales Coordinator: Bill Connell
First Prize: $2000 Accommodation at Bellevue Lakes Entrance. (I met with management this week offering a 505 share in costs. TBA.)
Second Prize: $1000 Betta Home Living Furnishings (thank you Shen)
Third Prize: Camera or Tabloid to be determined courtesy Warragul and Traralgon Optus (thank you Michael)
NB: We can arrange for printing of 4000 tickets through Gippsland Printing when Michael provides details of his donation.
