A festival of lights: an insider’s perspective on Diwali

Last weekend, Muhlenberg College embraced its cultural diversity by sponsoring several events to celebrate the Hindu festival of light, Diwali. These included the serving of an Indian meal in the dining hall, with tasty foods such as samosa and gulab jamun, as well as the holding of a garba, a Gujarati folk dance.

“Diwali” itself comes from the words “deep” (light) and “avali” (a row), accenting the importance of “a row of lights” in this celebration. Light conquering over darkness—and good over evil— is a main theme in this festival, which takes place over five days. As it usually overlaps with the Hindu New Year, Diwali is seen as a time for new beginnings and a time for joy. Participants commonly light fireworks, lamps, and brighten all lights to celebrate these ideals.

To gain a deeper perspective on Diwali and how it is celebrated today, I interviewed Krish Damany ‘17, a senior at Muhlenberg. In our conversation, he explained how he celebrated this holiday growing up in a Hindu family and culture:

How would you define how Hinduism affects your life?

It’s mostly something that my parents and family practice, so because of that, I practice it a little. I don’t do much of the religious stuff—it’s mostly celebrating holidays and cultural things.

In your words, what is Hinduism?

From what I know, it’s a peaceful religion. It’s polytheistic. There’s so many stories and legends about all the different deities, and they all lead to some kind of moral. Which is nice to have, I guess.

What is Diwali, and how does your family celebrate it?

It’s a festival of lights. It usually takes place at the beginning of November, or the end of October. It’s partially to celebrate the new year, as the Hindu calendar starts around the time of Diwali. When my family celebrates it, usually my mom turns on all the lights in the house and sometimes we go and light fireworks outside.

Is that how most families celebrate Diwali?

Well, it’s pretty dangerous in India, because they do more of the fireworks. Over there, fireworks aren’t really regulated, so it’s super dangerous. But usually, most people celebrate with anything that makes light, so it’ll be very bright.

Are there any prayers, or rituals, or particular foods that are eaten during this holiday?

There is a bit of a religious aspect to it. I used to do it, but don’t anymore. There’s a step-by-step process that you do; it takes like thirty minutes and then you’re done. You use certain objects and say some prayers. There’s some bells, you light candles, and you eat some foods as an offering. Diwali took place this year from Oct. 30 to Nov. 3. Even without being part of the Hindu culture or religion, all people can benefit from the message of hope and renewal that this festival of light brings.