Diwali, often synonymous with fireworks and sweets, is a multi-faceted festival celebrated by various religions for different reasons. This year, the festival falls on different dates for Hindus and Jains on October 31, Sikhs on November 1, and Buddhists on November 15. Each community highlights the deeper significances of the festival beyond the common festivities.
Vedika Apte, a 23-year-old Hindu student from London, cherishes Diwali as one of her favorite times of the year. Along with her family, she prepares traditional Indian sweets called ladoos, symbolizing the sweetness of life. Diwali encompasses a five-day celebration, starting with Dhanteras, when people buy precious metals in hopes of attracting wealth. Each day has its unique rituals, including cleaning homes to welcome the goddess Lakshmi and lighting divas to pray for prosperity and blessings for families and the world.
For the Jain community, represented by 19-year-old Dev from North London, Diwali focuses on spirituality and self-reflection. It commemorates the liberation of Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism. Dev emphasizes fasting and cleansing the body during this period to enhance one’s own spiritual awareness and to attain liberation from the cycle of reincarnation. This commitment to non-violence is reflected in their avoidance of firecrackers, focusing instead on lighting divas.
Diwali also carries a significant value for Sikhs like Beant Dhillon, who acknowledge it as Bandi Chhor Divas. This day’s historical significance celebrates the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib along with 52 Hindu princes, reminding the Sikh community of the triumph of good over evil and the importance of social justice and compassion.
For Buddhists, such as Venerable Phramaha Bhatsakorn Piyobhaso from South-West London, the festival of Loy Krathong takes precedence, symbolizing appreciation for nature and the water goddess, Phra Mae Khongkha. This celebration allows individuals to reflect on their survival and seek forgiveness while they create beautiful krathongs—floats made from banana leaves and filled with candles and incense sticks—offering respect to nature.
As Diwali approaches, it serves as a time for connection, gratitude, and reflection across various faiths, reminding participants of the deeper meanings embedded within the festivities. This year can serve as an opportunity to embrace not just the joyous celebrations but also the values of harmony, thanksgiving, and introspection that each community brings to this monumental festival.