Diwali, or Deepavali, is a festival that is celebrated around the World by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists on the 15th day of the 8th month in Lunar calendar (in October or November). The festival runs for five days with the main event happening on the third day. This year, the third day falls on Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021.
Diwali is called the “Festival of Lights,” clay lamps or diyas are lit and brightens the sky on this dark night of the New Moon. The light represents knowledge or goodness, that removes darkness (ignorance/evil). Lighting lamps signify the destruction, through knowledge, of all negative qualities — be it violence, anger, jealousy, greed, fear or suffering. Diwali celebrates the victory of good over evil as illustrated in the great Indian Epic Ramayana. People all over the world celebrate Diwali in their communities and at home.
Popular ways to celebrate include wearing new clothes, making special food and sweets, exchanging wishes, presents and gifts, praying for good health and prosperity and painting colorful patterns on doorsteps, lighting candles and lamps and shooting fireworks.
The Children’s Minnesota Asian employee resource group (ERG) is excited to help celebrate this important holiday. Please see the video below from some of our esteemed employees sharing their plans for Diwali.
How are you celebrating Diwali?
Here are some ways you can get involved!
- Wish Happy Diwali to friends, coworkers and family by sending positive messages and greetings. We created a Children’s Minnesota-branded card you can use electronically or print – click here.
- Light a lamp/candle in the evening to signify knowledge dispelling ignorance and victory of good over bad.
- Make a special treat: Click here for recipe from celebrated Minnesota chef Raghavan Iyer.
- Make a prayer for world peace and prosperity and dispel ignorance.
We know that celebrations will look different than they have in the past, but we sincerely wish everyone a blessed and happy Diwali. Please join us in sharing in the celebration and well wishes.
