By Aparna (India)

One of the most joyful and beautiful festivals to be celebrated on the Indian subcontinent is Diwali, the festival of lights. The very word Diwali conjures up the image of winking lights and flickering diyas. Not to forget the gorgeous array of sparkling colours emitted by the firecrackers that seem to awaken the night sky. It is one of the most important Indian festivals and is celebrated on a mass scale by Indians not only in India, but also all over the world.

The story behind Diwali highlights the victory of good over evil. It is believed that Lord Rama, the son of a powerful king of Ayodhya (an ancient town in India) was sent to 14 years in exile with his wife Sita and brother Laxman. During their time in the forest, Sita was abducted by the demon King of Ceylon, Ravana.Lord Rama , with the help of Lord Hanuman succeeded in defeating the fierce Ravana and bringing Sita back home safe.On their return, the people of Ayodhya lit lamps in every home to celebrate His victory and Sita’s safe return.

This tradition continues to date and the people of India celebrate Diwali by lighting earthen lamps, bursting crackers, and visiting their near and dear ones. It is also an auspicious day to start new businesses, for it is believed that the Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi showers her blessings on everyone on this day.

In all my years of celebrating Diwali, this was the most different one.It was my first Diwali away from home and although I didn’t get the chance to burst crackers or visit my relatives, a group of us along with Andrew Sewell attended the annual Diwali celebrations at the University of Victoria. There were dance and music performances by children, students and many others from the Indian community in and around Victoria. It was a special night for everyone there and it almost felt like being back home in India. What made the night more enjoyable was the buffet dinner we had at a local Indian restaurant. It reminded me of home and all the good food that’s usually prepared at this time of the year.

All in all,it was a wonderful day for all of us and I can’t wait to do it again next year!