It’s November and as we take a drive down Little India, the beautiful colours are a feast for the eyes and we definitely know what that means!
It’s time to celebrate the festival of lights, crackers, and sweets – Deepavali!
This year, it falls on the 4th of November. The colourful festival is one of the biggest celebrations for the Hindu community in Singapore. Houses and streets adorned by diyas and decorations, people exchanging sweets and gifts – it certainly is an exciting occasion to look forward to. For those who are not familiar with it, let us learn more about this festival!
What is Deepavali?
Deepavali (or Diwali) is a Hindu religious festival marking the triumph of good(light) over evil(darkness). To symbolically represent this, diyas(lamps) are lighted everywhere, filling the world with light. That is why it is also called the festival of lights.
Story of Deepavali
There are many legends behind the origin of Deepavali. But the most popular one is the one about Lord Ram, the seventh incarnation of the Hindu God, Vishnu. He was the Prince of Ayodhya. He, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman, was sent to exile for 14 years. During their exile, Sita was abducted by the evil demon, King Ravana. Ram, along with his companions, defeated Ravana and took back Sita. Deepavali marks the return of Ram and Sita to Ayodhya after their 14-year exile. The legend goes that the people lit diyas(oil lamps) and burst crackers to celebrate their triumphant return. Even today, the day stands to remind people that ultimately, good will triumph over evil and that light will always come out of the darkness.
There is another legend about how Goddess Lakshmi was born on Deepavali during the churning of the cosmic ocean. Therefore, it is considered a festival of prosperity also.
When is Deepavali?
Deepavali is on the 15th day (Amavasya: new moon) of Karthika. It is a month in the Hindu calendar which is considered the holiest. Depending on the region, the days of the Deepavali celebration can vary. It is five days in most places.
Celebrating Deepavali
In Singapore, Deepavali is a public holiday. It is celebrated mainly by the Hindu population of Singapore, who are predominantly Indians.
- Visiting temples
It is customary to visit temples and offer prayers during Deepavali. During the days leading up to Deepavali, there are events like the Silver Chariot procession. It is a spiritual as well as interesting experience visiting a temple during this time. The decorations and the beautiful painting styles of the temples are a feast for your eyes. Sri Mariamman Temple on South Bridge Road, Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple on Ceylon Road, and Sri Veeramakaliamman Hindu Temple are worth visiting.
- Visiting Relatives and Friends
This year, Covid-19 has once again made it challenging for families to visit each other. Instead of taking your children to visit relatives and friends, have Zoom calls to engage and interact with one another. While it may not have the same effect as in-person visits, the engagement and interaction between family members is important and pricess. It is also customary to wear new clothes on the day. Make it an occasion to renew and strengthen your bonds. Invite your non-Hindu friends and neighbours to take part in your celebrations. Even if you are not a follower of Hinduism, you can celebrate the day. Holidays and festivals are meant to bring together everyone, irrespective of their religions or origins.
- Decorating houses
People celebrating Deepavali decorate their houses. You can see geometric patterns drawn with rice flour called Rangoli adorning their doorways. There will also be flowers, lights, and other decorations, making it all a sight you need to witness.
- Lighting Diyas
It is what Diwali is known for the most. The name of the festival itself means an array of lights (Deepam or Diya). You can see houses and streets full of lighted diyas, making it a beautiful spectacle of lights and shadows.
- Deepavali food
No festival is complete without food. Ranging from savoury snacks to the sweetest desserts, people prepare different food items. Many restaurants offer special Deepavali menus. Make sure you check it out. You can find traditional and modern dishes you have never tried out. It can be a new experience for you and your family.
- Tell your children the story of Ram
The story of Ram is something you can enjoy and appreciate, no matter what your religion is. Your children will find it interesting for sure. It has magic, action and a lot of values to grab their attention. It is a good way to learn more about cultures other than your own. Only by learning about each other can we come together as humans.
- Give gifts
Make sure you give out gifts. It is a happy occasion. Share your happiness with others. The gifts need not be expensive. The thought is what matters the most.
- Avoid lighting crackers and go for eco-friendly alternatives
Even though fireworks are synonymous with Deepavali celebrations, try to limit their use. They are a prime source of air pollution.
- Go for a visit to Little India
The biggest celebration can be seen in Little India. The decorated and lit-up streets and houses are a view to behold. It is an experience you shouldn’t miss. You can take a walk with your family, or there are trishaw rides that offer you a tour of the whole neighbourhood.
As we mentioned earlier, this day is a reminder that good will triumph over evil and that light will always find its way out of the darkness. Let us all keep this thought close to our hearts, and live our lives to the fullest.
Wishing all Hindus a Happy and Blessed Deepavali! 🙂
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