Illuminating the light of joy

Joel Reju Daniel, IIK Young Contributor
Tuesday, October 29, 2024


Someone wise once said, "Festivals are the best indicators of a country's culture." How true that is! Festivals are indeed a central aspect of cultural expression. India, with its rich diversity, is a prime example of this. The country is a land of festivals, thanks to its multi-ethnic and multi-religious population. Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Christians live in harmony, celebrating their festivals with great enthusiasm and splendor. The government designates national holidays to mark these occasions, allowing the nation to celebrate in style. Festivals foster a sense of joy and togetherness among people. They provide an opportunity to gather, share meals, and enjoy relaxed moments, offering a refreshing break from the daily grind of household chores and office work. Festivals bring color and vibrancy to life, reminding people of their spiritual connection with the divine. In a world often marked by rivalry and prejudice, where individuals compete for wealth and recognition, festivals offer a chance to meet, strengthen bonds of friendship, and rekindle love. God teaches love, not hatred, and it is during these festivals that people can truly embody these values, integrating them into their lives.

Diwali, the festival of lights, holds a special place in the hearts of millions, not just for its rich cultural significance but also for the spirit of joy it brings. Celebrated across India and many parts of the world, Diwali is more than just a festival of lights and firecrackers. It’s a celebration of inner joy, togetherness, and the triumph of good over evil. As the diyas (oil lamps) glow and homes sparkle with vibrant decorations, Diwali illuminates not only physical spaces but also hearts and minds with happiness and positivity. One of the most beautiful aspects of Diwali is the sense of community and togetherness it fosters. Families gather to clean and decorate their homes, prepare traditional sweets, and perform prayers. It’s a time to reconnect with loved ones, share moments of laughter, and create lasting memories. Friends and neighbors exchange gifts and sweets, spreading cheer across the community. This shared celebration strengthens bonds and reminds us of the importance of love and unity in our lives.

Everyone can agree upon the fact unanimously that ‘Rangolis’ or ‘diyas’ are an inevitable or unavoidable part of this festival. On this day, people light earthen oil lamps and adorn their homes with glittering lights of all colours and sizes at the gates and fences, creating a captivating scene. Children like popping fireworks, including sparklers, rockets, flower pots, fountains, peony fireworks, and others. Diwali, sometimes also referred to as "Deepavali," is one of the most auspicious celebrations for people living in India or elsewhere in the world.

While Diwali is outwardly a grand festival of lights, decorations, and festivities, it also offers an opportunity for introspection. The festival encourages us to light the lamp of wisdom within ourselves, illuminating the path of self-awareness and personal growth. Just as we clear our homes of clutter in preparation for the festival, Diwali reminds us to clear the mind of negativity, grudges, and unnecessary fears. True joy, after all, comes from within—a state of inner peace and contentment.

In today’s fast-paced world, where stress, competition, and daily challenges can often overshadow happiness, Diwali serves as a vital reminder to slow down and celebrate life’s simple pleasures. The festival encourages us to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the joy that is ever-present, yet sometimes forgotten in our busy lives.

From children excitedly bursting firecrackers to elders sharing stories and wisdom, Diwali brings moments of pure joy to people of all ages. It’s a time when smiles are more abundant, hearts are more open, and the air is filled with an infectious energy of happiness. In a world that often feels divided, Diwali offers a moment to unite in celebration and rediscover the light of joy within ourselves and our communities.

Let this Diwali be a time of enlightenment, joy, prosperity, connectedness, love, caring, peace and blessing! Wishing you and your loved ones a hearty Diwali!

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Joel Reju Daniel
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