Deepawali Archives

Deepawali – By Shiyamala Yogeswaran Source : Dæhæna Qld Sri Lankan Newsletter Deepawali, or the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated globally in various ways. While deeply rooted in Hindu traditions, it is observed by over a billion people, including Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains. The festival, which usually takes place in October or November, derives its name from the Sanskrit word meaning “row of lights.” Image Source : lyfta The light in Deepawali holds deep symbolic meaning which is wherever light shines, darkness is dispelled. Just as light drives away physical darkness, it also represents the removal of emotional and spiritual darkness caused by anger, greed, hatred, jealousy and ego. Enlightenment brings clarity, guiding the soul toward freedom from suffering of birth. When people realise the truth and grasp the deeper significance of life and the divine, their soul is liberated from worldly burdens. This spiritual ...

DEEPAWALI – By Sujatha Vasudevan Source : Qld Sri Lankan Newsletter – Dæhæna – November 2023 Introduction: Hinduism is one of the widespread religions of the world with many meaningful and valuable festivals enriching its traditions. One such festival is Deepawali, meaning a Row of Lamps. The highlight of the festival is lighting several lamps on a new moon day, occurring usually in the month of November . Underlying reason for this celebration: There are a few legendary stories for celebrating this festival. Some stories refer to the return of Lord Rama with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmanan after his victory over Ravana from 14 years of exile on an new moon day. The people in his city Ayothya lit the lamps to welcome them. Yet another story mentions about the return of Lord Krishna after destroying Narakasur. From these mythological stories one can observe that it is a celebration ...