IT was a cultural extravaganza as Lalitha Tilakdharee, a Hindu follower, welcomed several individuals from other races and religions into her Durban North home for a Diwali-themed celebration last week.
Not only were the guests treated to traditional Diwali treats and eats but they also discussed the rituals and preparations relating to the festival. The aim, she said, was to share with others the true meaning behind the annual celebration, also known as the Festival of Lights.
“We saw a melting pot of many cultures join in the celebration today. However, I believe the beauty and the true meaning behind the festival is often lost behind the fireworks, when in fact the big bangs actually have nothing to do with the festival. The celebration is all about getting rid of darkness, whether it is within the individual or their home or work. The clay lamps that are lit signify hope, peace and positive energy which nourishes the mind, body and soul. The flame inspires intellect in the right direction,” she said.
However, Tilakdharee also said she believed that most Hidus had heeded the call for the responsible use of fireworks. “While we don’t personally celebrate with the big bangs, I believe most people have become aware of the trauma these fireworks cause animals, and have either stopped shooting them altogether or will stop by 10pm, as the regulations permit,” she said.
Diwali rituals and preparations:
Typically the festival preparations and rituals extend over a five-day period, but the main festival night coincides with the darkest, new moon night of the Hindu Lunisolar month Kartika and falls between mid-October and mid-November
Before Diwali night, people clean undergo a cleansing of both the body and mind. “In our family we bathe in oils on the morning of Diwali to cleanse the body of toxins and to unblock the chakras. It enables the individual to start anew and to recondition their bodies,” she said.
Before the day turns to dark the lamps or diyas are lit inside and outside the home and the family commences their prayers or puja. After prayers the family gathers for a feats which included sweets or mithai and other eats. Throughout the festival gifts are also exchanged between family and close friends.
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