Berea residents ‘light up’ for Diwali
Fireworks, festive food, and a new film- find out how Berea residents are celebrating Diwali.
AS Hindu families across South Africa commemorate Diwali this week, Musgrave resident, Yogambal Singaram will celebrate with her children and grandchildren. They will share a special meal and exchange gifts before visiting other family members.
“Diwali, or Deepavali, is a festival of lights symbolising the victory of inner light over spiritual darkness. All Hindus in the community celebrate. People clean their homes thoroughly and decorate with clay lamps to welcome Godess Luxmi into their homes,” she said.
Singaram plans to celebrate with family and fireworks.
“It’s really sad that we cannot invite people to our homes to celebrate with us because of Covid-19. In the evening we will gather at one of our children’s homes to burst fireworks, which the children thoroughly enjoy,” she added.
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Her family traditions have adapted with the times.
“The tradition in our family used to be where the entire family will line up and have an oil bath or a cleansing bath. This is done by adding three types of oils warmed and applied from your head to your toes. Today, unfortunately, children find this uncomfortable and they rather apply the oil on their heads and bath,” she explained.
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While many opt for the convenience of store-bought eats, Singaram cherishes family time in the kitchen.
“The idea of baking with my children is one thing that I will always do. This time spent with family is so precious and the bonding that exists in the kitchen is what our family looks forward to. By doing this we are encouraging our younger ones not to forget the tradition of baking. In days gone by, only savories like Veda, bajia and Puri Patha were made. Today we have the most delectable sweetmeats and biscuits in beautiful boxes to share with our friends and family,” she said.
Diwali celebrations at the South African Hindu Maha Sabha
Ashwin Trikamjee, president of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha (SAHMS), said they have produced a short film The Diwali Story as part of its Diwali celebrations.
“The general Diwali traditions are lighting up homes with diyas and making sweetmeats, while families get together for a Diwali Havan (religious fire ritual),” he said.
Families also take part in special prayer services and distribute of food hampers to those in need.
To watch the full film, visit the South African Maha Saba Facebook Page or YouTube account. For more information visit their website: sahms.org.za.
