Imagine a night when homes everywhere glow with tiny, flickering lamps. Fireworks brighten the sky, friends and family gather, and streets fill with laughter, color, and celebration. This is Diwali, one of the most cherished festivals celebrated by millions worldwide. Known as the “Festival of Lights,” Diwali has a simple yet profound message: light triumphs over darkness, and hope triumphs over despair. This year, Diwali falls on November 1, 2024.
So, What Is Diwali Really About?
Diwali isn’t just a festival; it’s a journey rooted in stories and ancient Indian traditions. One of the central tales comes from the Ramayana, an epic in which Diwali celebrates the return of Prince Rama to his kingdom after 14 years of exile. Rama, who had just defeated the fearsome demon king Ravana, returned home with his wife, Sita, and brother, Lakshmana. The people welcomed them by lighting thousands of oil lamps to mark the victory of good over evil.
But the spirit of Diwali isn’t limited to a single story. It reflects deep values, symbolizing new beginnings, gratitude, and personal renewal. During Diwali, people honor Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and abundance, with prayers and rituals, seeking prosperity not just in finances but in health, happiness, and peace.
A Universal Prayer for Light
One of the most cherished verses recited during Diwali is an ancient Sanskrit prayer:
“Tamaso mā jyotir gamaya” — which translates to “Lead me from darkness to light.”
Breaking it down:
- Tamaso – From darkness
- Mā – Lead me
- Jyotir – To light
- Gamaya – Guide me
This verse isn’t just about physical light. It’s a plea to find clarity in life’s confusing moments, to find hope when faced with setbacks, and to embrace knowledge where there’s uncertainty. During Diwali, people light small diyas (lamps) in their homes and in their hearts, symbolizing this journey from the shadows of ignorance to the brilliance of understanding and compassion.
Diwali in America: Blending Tradition with New Meaning
In America, Diwali has found a special place, bridging cultural gaps and bringing people together. For Indian Americans, Diwali is both a way to connect to their heritage and a chance to share these values with friends and neighbors. Across the country, cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago celebrate Diwali with grand public events, music, dancing, and delicious food, creating a vibrant tapestry of tradition and community spirit.
For Indian Americans, Diwali in the U.S. is about more than just following traditions from back home. It’s about sharing a universal message: that no matter where you are or what challenges you face, there’s a light within that can guide you forward. In workplaces, schools, and neighborhoods, people gather to celebrate Diwali together, often extending the tradition beyond the Indian community. The lights of Diwali, whether displayed on porches in the suburbs or in the heart of big cities, remind us all of the shared journey from darkness to light.
Why Diwali Matters — For Everyone
Diwali isn’t only a cultural festival; it’s a time to reflect on what’s important. At its heart, Diwali teaches that everyone has an inner light, a strength to guide them through dark or challenging times. It’s a chance to reconnect with loved ones, to give thanks, and to look forward with hope and intention.
As people gather for Diwali, they honor the verse from the Upanishads:
“Tamaso mā jyotir gamaya” — Lead us from darkness to light.
The lamps, music, and warmth of Diwali are a reminder that even the smallest light can dispel the deepest darkness. For anyone experiencing moments of doubt or facing life’s uncertainties, Diwali brings a universal message: there is always light, and there is always hope.
