Diwali Festivities Foster Community Unity

Families, friends, and neighbours are gathering to observe Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Rashmi Bansal from Cheltenham describes this event, one of the most sacred days in the Hindu calendar, as an opportunity to introduce “positive energy” for the start of the new year. She has been engaged in cleaning her home and preparing to welcome her friends, family, and neighbours, whom she considers “like family.” Pravin Patel, a family friend and member of The Hindu Cultural Association, commented, “Diwali is special because it brings the community together.” Spiritually, Diwali symbolises the “victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.” The date of the festival is determined by the moon’s position and typically spans five days. The primary day of celebrations consistently occurs on the third day, which this year is scheduled for 31 October. For many families, preparations extend over several weeks. Ms. Bansal, a physiotherapist for Gloucestershire Health & Care NHS Trust, explained, “We do a spring clean – cleanliness is really important.” She added, “Getting rid of things which are not serving you any more.” She further clarified, “It’s all linked with bringing something new into your house.” and “We get of the old things from the house. New, positive energy will start the new year.” The Bansal family has adorned their home and intends to enjoy traditional home-cooked food with close friends and family. Ms. Bansal also stated, “Our neighbours are like our family as well, so we always invite them back in the house.” They have illuminated diyas (oil lamps) and plan to light firecrackers later in the evening. Ms. Bansal concluded, “Then lots of food and sweets.” Mr. Patel characterised the occasion by saying, “It’s a community event, all in all.” He then offered the greeting, “Happy Diwali!” Readers can follow BBC Gloucestershire on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.