Right now India is in the festive season known as Diwali (also called Deepavali). It is commonly referred to as the "Festival of Lights", but more importantly it is spiritually significant in terms of recognizing inner light. Diwali is a five day long celebration in which families get together and participate in a variety of traditional activities. Although this is primarily a Hindu holiday, it is also celebrated by Sikhs and Jains. Small clay lamps are painstakingly filled with oil and lit continuously throughout the night to signify the triumph of good over evil. Firecrackers can be heard throughout the evenings, as they are believed to ward off evil. Because I am an interpreter for a family business, I have the opportunity to witness the intricacies of this festival not normally afforded to a foreigner.
Ganesh (god of auspicious beginnings and remover of obstacles) with several small deeyas (clay pots) to welcome prosperity.
I just so happen to live in a city that its well known for its Diwali celebration. Carnivals can be found on every street corner with rides, foods, and vendors selling various wares to exchange with friends and family for Diwali. I've been to the carnival 3 times in the last week!
Tinsel is strung so heavily that it has formed a canopy covering the streets. Lights cover every surface of the city. I might as well start referring to the old city as Las Vegas. Some of the displays are incredibly intricate, requiring weeks of preparation. The streets are crowded with late night shoppers, tourists, and vehicles loaded with people checking out the lights.
As with any special occasion in India, many women have their hands decorated with mehndi (read: henna). These can be very simple to very complex designs that will last up to a few weeks.
Although Diwali lasts for five days, the third day is the most important. This day, Amavaysa, marks the worship of Laksmi, the goddess of wealth. Pujas (prayer rituals) are performed in homes and businesses in hopes of receiving the blessing of prosperity for the upcoming year. Also on this day, people wear new clothing and have large meals with family. If you're lucky enough, drummers will show up at your home to encourage plenty of dancing.
Don't plan on going to sleep at a decent hour, because the fireworks will continue long into the night!
I just so happen to live in a city that its well known for its Diwali celebration. Carnivals can be found on every street corner with rides, foods, and vendors selling various wares to exchange with friends and family for Diwali. I've been to the carnival 3 times in the last week!
Tinsel is strung so heavily that it has formed a canopy covering the streets. Lights cover every surface of the city. I might as well start referring to the old city as Las Vegas. Some of the displays are incredibly intricate, requiring weeks of preparation. The streets are crowded with late night shoppers, tourists, and vehicles loaded with people checking out the lights.
Don't plan on going to sleep at a decent hour, because the fireworks will continue long into the night!
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