The duo that is Deepavali
Deepavali is known as ‘the Festival of Lights’, where those who celebrate light the lamp of knowledge to understand and reflect on the significance of the day
The warm ambience of a home celebrating the sacred tradition of Deepavali, or Diwali, is significant in the rich tapestry of South African tradition.
Ever since the first indentured labourers landed on SA shores, bringing with them a vibrant and diverse culture, traditions relating to their histories have flourished and adapted.
Diwali this year will be celebrated over two days:
Saturday, October 26 – Deepavali (South Indians)
Sunday, October 27 – Diwali (North Indians).
Why two days?
After South Africa became a democratic country in 1994, Indian languages did not feature among the official languages. Therefore, the celebration did not automatically qualify as a school holiday. Principals were required, by order of the Department of Education, to apply to have their schools closed in order for Diwali celebrations.
To help determine which of the two days they should ask for, the South African Hindu Maha Sabha and affiliates decided the dates would alternate each year between the North and South Indian days of observance.
The tradition of Deepavali:
As one of the most prominent festivals celebrated in India, Diwali signifies the triumph of light over darkness.
Many homes are brightly and colourfully lit with diyas, clay lamps, candles and string lights. What is a feast for most eyes is deeply rooted in religion and tradition.
For many Indian families, the day begins with an ‘oil bath’, where members are anointed with a blend of different oils to cleanse themselves for the day ahead.
Once dressed in brand-new traditional attire, the day then commences.
After the prayers are observed, family and friends begin arriving with ‘parcels’ – these are usually beautifully packaged offerings of sweetmeats and baked goods to give thanks.
Many choose to forego the tradition of making parcels for family, friends and neighbours and instead donate to those less fortunate in their communities.
What is the meaning of ‘Deepavali’?
Deepavali is a Sanskrit word, which means ‘row of lamps’. It is likely the word ‘Diwali’ is a contracted form of Deepavali.
The history of Deepavali is replete with legends often moored to the stories of Hindu religious scriptures. These all point to the classic truth of the triumph of good over evil or light over darkness. Deepavali is known as ‘the Festival of Lights’, where those who celebrate light the lamp of knowledge to understand and reflect on the significance of the day.
The lighting of lamps is a way of paying obeisance to God for the attainment of health, wealth, knowledge and peace. It is through this light that the beauty of this world is revealed.
To Hindus, darkness represents ignorance, and light is a metaphor for knowledge. Therefore, lighting the lamp symbolises the destruction, through knowledge, of all negative forces including wickedness, anger, envy, greed, fear, injustice, oppression, suffering etc.
Think About Us:
Here are some tips to help you keep your furry kids safe.
1. Make sure your pet’s collars and microchips are up to date.
2. Keep your dog/cat indoors and ensure there is a safe place for them to hide and no way to escape from home.
3. Switch on the TV or radio to muffle the sounds and keep the curtains closed.
4. Leave your dog/cat in their hiding spot and don’t change your behavior towards them. If you take them out and cuddle them it may make them fear worse.
5. Feed your pet and exercise dogs before the fireworks starts as a fuller tummy makes them a little more sleepy and help them relax.
6. Visit your vet a couple of weeks before as most calming agents need time to build up in the system.
7. Try be at home with your pet during this potentially stressful time.
(Tips courtesy of Dunvet Veterinary Clinic)
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