Diwali, a Beautiful Celebration of Hope in Today’s Turbulent Times

As you grow up, you recognize that good and bad are not black and white and there are many shades of grey. Time passes and there is a growing sense of uncertainty. How do you navigate these shades of grey? How do you stay strong in the worst of times? Even though there are many things that make us feel discouraged, Diwali serves as a reminder that everything will be fine – even when it doesn’t seem like it. Diwali is a holiday about overcoming darkness that is celebrated by a range of religions that includes Buddhism, Hinduism, and Sikhism. Diwali’s central theme is hope. 

Although Diwali’s origin story varies, the victory of good over evil is its fundamental theme. According to National Geographic Kids, the holiday’s name comes from the practice of putting an avali of deepa outside homes. The deepa, clay lamps, symbolize the inner light that protects people from spiritual darkness. Diwali’s date is based on the Hindu lunar calendar, so Diwali typically happens in late-October to early November. In 2024, Diwali started on October 31 and ended November 1st.

Diwali is celebrated uniquely over different regions, but lights, fireworks, fasting, new clothes, and praying are prevalent in all of the differing celebrations. In southern India, many people engage in physical and spiritual purification by taking an early morning warm oil bath to symbolize bathing in the Ganges River, Hindu’s holy body of water. In northern India, people worship the goddess Lakshmi which symbolizes wealth and prosperity. According to a CBS morning video, families would light candles and sparklers to celebrate Diwali. The video highlights how a multi-racial family continues to honor the cultural tradition in America. Additionally, the video recognizes that Diwali has become a mainstream holiday. At Times Square, people celebrate Diwali through cultural dances and music.

Mattel released a Diwali barbie doll on October 3, 2024, referencing elements of Indian clothing through floral prints. Southeast Asian representation is often missing in toys, but Mattel sets an example on how to include and celebrate other cultures so others can do the same. Celebrating culture through toys and play introduces and gives kids the opportunity to be knowledgeable about other cultures.

On November 7th 2024, Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts held a special event to celebrate Diwali. The event featured workshops that included a tour of understanding objects in MFA galleries that are associated with Diwali, drop-in art making where you made your own lotus painting, and other activities. In Indian culture, the lotus flower symbolizes purity and prosperity. The lotus can be seen in architecture, clothes, and everyday items. Through these events, the MFA helps provide the general public with a deeper understanding of Diwali and Indian culture.

Recognizing and celebrating cultural festivals are important things to do because it helps traditions prosper and continues to educate people about other identities. Although America has a history of forcing assimilation, this county is still a melting pot filled with a diverse range of cultures, so it’s important to uplift and celebrate the traditions of others. Diwali serves as a reminder that light will always overcome darkness. I believe that message needs to be heard by everyone, especially in today’s  turbulent times. Diwali is a time to give back to you and celebrate your hard work and self. As a society, we should raise each other up and celebrate differences.