Happy Deewali!
Deewali is great festival of India which celebrates win of good over evil. The festival has universal appeal and is celebrated across this diverse country including Hindu’s and Sikhs. Deewali is the festival of light when Lord Rama returned to his kingdom after spending 14 years in exile and conquering the evil ruler of Lanka called Ravana. This is all according to Hindu mythology and is celebrated to this date with all the enthusiasms. The last few years I have seen White House celebrating this festival,this year was no different with President Obama inaugrating the Deewali celebration in White House. This speaks of the growing influence Indians are having in US politics. You can watch Obama’s Deewali message here.
Deewali brings up fond memories of my childhood. I grew up in coal mines where my dad would head coal mines with 1000s of people working under his leadership. we would have three days of non stop festivities, one day for orchestra , the other day for what is called Kawwali and a third day of Kavi Sammelan or something similar. The night would light up with fireworks, happiness in the air everywhere. I do plan to go to India one of these Deewali’s , may be next year..it’s been a while…really..over 13 years now and celebrate it with mom and dad!!!
Great Work..we Indians are proud of you..