Within us all, there is something that burns bright with an eager anticipation to live life. Despite there being so many evils in this world that can take this light away from us, on the day of Diwali, the spiritual victory of light over darkness is celebrated to show the true beauty behind the good of light.
This is essentially the most important representation behind Diwali, although there are variations on why Diwali is celebrated across all the different religions that celebrate. For example, within the Sikh faith it is known in Sikh history that it celebrates the return of the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobin, in 1619 from wrongful imprisonment. What this really symbolizes is the struggle of freedom, good defeated evil as Guru Hargobind rightfully returned with fifty-two princes who were also wrongfully imprisoned.
Aside from the historical significance of this festival, there is so much more meaning behind it as families come together to celebrate such a colorful and festive day. It is something that even students from Selma High School can relate to and express.
“My family and I celebrate Diwali by making traditional foods, lighting diyas, and going to the Gurdwara,” expressed freshman Manpreet Kaur.
The festivities of Diwali are exhilarating as they include such mesmerizing decorations of colorful lights. It can be celebrated by lighting diyas, which are made from clay and have a wick dipped in oil to light and place upon other diyas in the Gurdwara (a Sikh place of Worship) or at your home. It makes Diwali very festive and unique as beautiful diyas fill the floors of homes and Gurdwaras to light up the night.
“To my younger self, Diwali felt like Christmas without the presents, so naturally I didn’t like it. As I got older though, I started to appreciate the festivity it brought in our lives every year,” expressed senior Gurbir Pannu.
With age, many start to see the true meaning behind what we grew up with. With Diwali, it becomes more surreal as you get older because of how it brings many together on a special night to simply celebrate the goodness of life. In becoming more independent, we sometimes lose sight of how important these moments are. Making the meaning behind every little action a beautiful one.
“I enjoy lighting the diyas because it’s more personal; like it’s something I contributed to,” said Gurbir.
Having a sense of belonging and contribution is what brightens Diwali up even more. It allows families to just join together and enjoy a small act such as lighting up a diya together, an experience that is heartwarming and fulfilling to those who celebrate.
Nonetheless, there is a deeper meaning behind the traditions of Diwali because of the ties of evil it breaks and the connection it brings with our culture.
“They represent happiness and freedom to me,” expressed Manpreet.
Keeping a connection with your culture is something that is valued in life because it is essentially your roots. Not straying away from where your family has come from can bring new and beautiful experiences within your life, keeping the goodness in your life alive.
