What is Diwali?

Diwali is a major holiday that is celebrated around the world by millions of people. This five-day festival of lights is tied to many faiths, including Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. 

While each faith carries its own significance and narrative, they all celebrate the victory of good over evil. 

Hindus celebrate the return of deities, Rama and Sita, to Ayodhya after their 14-year exile. It is common among Hindus to light diyas on the night of the new moon to invite the presence of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.

Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Diwas, which is translated to day of liberation. The celebration remembers the historic day when the sixth guru of the Sikhs Guru Hargobind was set free from the King’s punishment.  

Jains celebrate the moment when Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, reached a state called Moksha (nirvana, or eternal bliss). The day after Diwali marks the Jain New Year. Jains celebrate new beginnings and members of the Jain community greet each other with "Saal Mubarak" or Happy New Year. 

How is Diwali Celebrated?

Thursday, November 4, 2021 marks day three of the five-day festivities. This is often the main day of festivities. It is the time when people perform acts of dana (charitable giving) and seva (selfless service), deep cleaning and decorating the home, performing religious ceremonies, stringing up lights, and reflecting on deeply-held values.

In years past, team members coordinated a Diwali celebration with a festivity of food and fun. In 2021 we celebrate Diwali in part by reflecting on this memory and the value of growing by sharing our traditions. 

How can I get involved?

On Sunday, November 7, 2021 from 10:00 AM-4:00 PM celebrate the traditional fall Indian "Festival of Lights" with the India Society of Worcester on Worcester Art Museum’s (WAM) First Free Sunday! Diwali gets its name from the row (avali) of clay lamps (deepa) that Indians light outside their homes to symbolize the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness. Join the WAM for a full day of Indian dance, music, food, and art-making. 

Have a Diwali event you would like to share? 

Share the event on the Slack #inclusion channel.