Happy Deepavali

Deepavali – or Diwali – is probably one of the most anticipated festivals in the Hindu calendar, and is also celebrated by Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists all over the world. The festival of lights falls this year on October 26th, and is a day filled with lots of light, food and fireworks.

Everyone celebrates Deepavali in different ways, with some believing it to be the day Lord Rama returned home to Ayodhya, and others celebrating Lord Krishna’s triumph over the demon Narakasura. The story behind the festival varies among different regions, but ultimately, Deepavali celebrates the triumph of good over evil. In some parts of India, the festival spans over 5 days, with each day having a different significance, and is a festival that is particularly important, as it rings in the Hindu new year for them. Apart from India, countries such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore and Mauritius have an official holiday on this day (unfortunately this isn’t the case here in London!). Most people spent the day with family, decorating the house with lit lamps and then in the evening, feasting and of course, doing fireworks.

To each and everyone of you around the world who are celebrating this colourful festival, we wish you a very Happy Deepavali and to those who are ringing in a new year, we hope it is a prosperous one.

Stay safe!

With love,
The Thamarai Team