“It differs from other Hindu festivals in that there is no parade or loud public gatherings: it is mostly domestic, yet Indian communities outside of India get together in public to celebrate”, Beck said. People ostentatiously ornate their houses with elegant and bright lights few days before Diwali.
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“The whole country is in a celebration mood, so why should we not be a part of the festivities?”
Dwiali is held in the honour of Lakshmi, goddess of wealth and prosperity. In addition to conducting elaborate prayers, residents and businesses also use the occasion to clean and redecorate homes and offices. Not just the regular sweeping, vacuuming, and dusting but the wiping of ceilings, walls, re-washing bedroom linens, and cleaning kitchen cupboards top to bottom are common chores among many others. A few people will even draw footprints into the house to signify the goddess coming inside. According to Pew Research’s 2014 Religious Landscape study, 68 percent of Hindu Americans support marriage equality; 71 percent said they agree with the statement, “Homosexuality should be accepted by society”. Rangoli, which is a type of decorative design made at the entrance of homes, is very colorful and made out of colored rice powder.
Hindus have also invited Muslims, Sikhs to celebrate on Nov 14.
The Gulf Today had an opportunity to obtain comments from a few Indians who are observing Diwali.
It is also a tradition to wear entirely brand new clothes. Diwali is a time where traditional foods and candies are shared among family and friends.
Shona Powell, the Director of Lakeside Arts, said: “This is only the second time that Nottingham Lakeside Arts has worked in partnership with Nottingham Asian Arts Festival Consortium, and it will build on last year’s inaugural event which attracted a few 2000 people of all ages”.
Diwali literally means “row of lanterns” and its actual day of celebration falls on the third day of the five-day holiday which is on a Wednesday this year.
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“It gives the message of peace and harmony for all people irrespective of their religion or belief”, the activist says. “I look forward to continuing to grow this celebration and wish all who are celebrating this week a Happy Diwali”, Bera said. This festival is not only celebrated in India but it is also celebrated in all around the world.
