Celebrating Diwali: A Festival of Light, Unity, and Flavor

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a significant holiday in many religions including Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, and Buddhism, and is celebrated by millions across the globe. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. At the heart of this festival is the belief that no matter how challenging life may seem, the light of hope and goodness will always prevail. Here at the Abbotsford Community Foundation we join in celebrating Diwali, recognizing the values of togetherness, generosity, and community that this festival represents.

In Hinduism, Diwali traces its origins back to ancient India, where it is believed to commemorate the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom after 14 years of exile. According to the Hindu epic Ramayana, the people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps to guide Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana home after their victory over the demon king Ravana. This act of lighting lamps, or diyas, has since become a key part of the Diwali celebration, symbolizing the banishment of darkness and the welcoming of light into our lives and homes.

The festival typically lasts five days, with the third day being the main day of Diwali itself. It is a time for families to come together, homes to be adorned with beautiful rangolis and glowing diyas, and communities to share in the joy of the season. Prayers are offered to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, as families seek blessings for a prosperous and peaceful year ahead.

No celebration of Diwali is complete without the sharing of food, and the festival is renowned for its vibrant and diverse culinary traditions. On Diwali, families prepare and enjoy a wide variety of sweet and savory dishes that reflect the cultural richness of the regions where the festival is celebrated. Traditional sweets, or mithai, take center stage, symbolizing the sweetness of life and the joy of being together.

Some of the most beloved dishes enjoyed during Diwali include:

• Samosas and Pakoras: Savory treats such as samosas (filled pastries) and pakoras (fried snacks) are popular during Diwali feasts.
• Puri and Chole: A meal of puri (deep-fried bread) served with chole (spiced chickpea curry) is a common dish during Diwali.
• Sweets (Mithai): Sweets like ladoos, jalebi, barfi, and gulab jamun are staples of Diwali celebrations.

Check out some Diwali recipes here.

In Abbotsford, a city known for its vibrant and multicultural community, Diwali is a time when our South Asian neighbors open their hearts and homes to friends and family, sharing the warmth of the festival with everyone. Local temples, community centers, and families light up the city with festivities, from cultural performances to public feasts, offering all an opportunity to experience the joy and togetherness of Diwali.

By celebrating Diwali, we honor the spirit of unity and inclusiveness that makes Abbotsford a special place. The festival reminds us of the importance of welcoming others, sharing in each other’s traditions, and recognizing the light within every person, regardless of faith or background.

As we embrace Diwali, let’s also carry its message of hope, generosity, and compassion throughout the year. Happy Diwali!