Celebrating Diwali 2022
Diwali (or Deepavali) is one of the major festivals celebrated globally and is observed by over a billion people worldwide. Also known as the 'festival of lights,' the five-day festival is usually celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs with this year's celebration starting today, Monday, October 24. Shan Alagappan, our IT Systems Business Partner here in the North Delivery Team celebrates Diwali and kindly shared the significance behind the Festival of Lights.
"Diwali translates to "a string of lights" derived from the Sanskrit word 'Dipawali," Shan explains.
"While each religion has different traditions for commemorating this spiritual holiday, there is a shared belief that Diwali represents the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness and wisdom over ignorance,'' he said.
Traditional Diwali decorations adorn the walls and entrance of Shan’s home
Shan said the weeks leading up to Diwali are traditionally a time for redecorating the home, buying new clothes, and exchanging gifts, all of which help build up excitement ahead of the main Diwali celebrations.
"In the weeks beforehand we gift sweetmeats, dried fruits, and nuts."
"Once Diwali officially begins, we decorate our homes with lanterns and string lights and hold family gatherings to share meals and treats," he said.
Although Shan hasn't celebrated in his home country for many years, he reflects fondly on Diwali festivities back in India.
"In India, cities glow with colour as people let off fireworks, continuously creating a spectacle of noise, chaos, and delight," Shan recalls.
"Many Indians consider Diwali a fresh start and go overboard with sparklers and fireworks to fuel the inner light that spiritually protects them from the darkness."
What's on in Sydney to celebrate Diwali?
Enjoy an evening stroll and follow the row of lights and flags at the City of Parramatta’s stunning Diwali lighting installation along the Parramatta River Foreshore and on Wigram Street, Harris Park. The lighting installation marks the 75th Year of Indian Independence and continues through the Diwali period up until the end of October.
This Saturday, October 29, the Deepavali Festival, which will have activities for all the family, is at Rouse Hill Town Centre from 11am to 6pm.
Bradfield Park in North Sydney will also be holding celebrations on the 29th, with food, free henna and cultural performances from 3pm.
On Sunday, October 30, Cherrybrook Village will also hold a Deepavali Festival from 11am-3pm.
There's also a Little India Harris Park Diwali Fair on Wigram Street on October 30.