Holiday Notice: Diwali 2024

Diwali – The festival of lights

Diwali, or Dipawali, is India’s biggest and most important holiday of the year.
The festival takes its name from the row (avali) of clay lamps (deepa) that Indians light outside their homes to symbolize the inner light that protects against spiritual darkness. This festival is as important to Hindus as Christmas is to Christians.

Diwali – the festival of lights – is one of the most important festivals in India. However, this important cultural event is also celebrated in many other countries such as Malaysia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Singapore.  People come together to share their happiness with their loved ones and express their gratitude for the blessings in their lives. The five-day festival is celebrated with good food, fireworks, colored sand and special lights and lamps.

But there is a common theme no matter where people celebrate: the victory of good over evil.

The reasons we celebrate Diwali

Victory of Light over Darkness
Diwali signifies the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. It is associated with various mythological stories, the most common of which is the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, symbolizing the victory of righteousness over wickedness.

Lakshmi Puja
Diwali is also dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi, who is considered the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. People worship and seek her blessings on this day, hoping for financial success and well-being in the coming year.

New Beginnings
Diwali marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year in many regions. It is a time for people to make new resolutions and start afresh in various aspects of life, including business, education, and personal development.

Cultural Significance
Diwali is a time for families to come together and celebrate with enthusiasm. It involves cleaning and decorating homes, exchanging gifts, preparing delicious sweets and snacks, wearing new clothes, and participating in cultural activities, including traditional dances and music.

Spiritual Significance
For many, Diwali is a time for spiritual reflection and self-improvement. It is an occasion to light the lamp of knowledge and seek inner enlightenment.

Harvest Festival
In some parts of India, Diwali is celebrated as a harvest festival, giving thanks for the bountiful crops and seeking blessings for a successful agricultural season ahead.

Diverse Celebrations: Diwali is celebrated by people of various religions and communities in India, including Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists. Each group may have their unique customs and reasons for celebrating Diwali.

As we celebrate this Diwali, we keep you in our hearts as we pray for good fortune, success and prosperity.