Ward 22 Cllr Privi Makhan writes:
This weekend Hindus across the globe will celebrate one of the most auspicious festivals on the annual Hindu calendar.
Diwali is called the Festival of Lights and is celebrated in honour of Lord Ram. It is said that on this day, Lord Ram returned home to Ayodhya after spending 14 years in exile during which he fought and won a battle with Ravaan, the demon king of Lanka, with the help of faithful Lord Hanuman.
People lit their homes up to celebrate his victory over evil, and they further illuminated the paths with diyas (clay lamps) so Lord Ram and his entourage could make their way home. It is also believed that Lakshmi the goddess of prosperity roams the Earth on this auspicious day and visits homes that are pure and bright.
A typical Diwali for me and many other Hindus would be to take a traditional bath with three oils before dawn, and then perform prayer rituals by offering fruit, sweetmeats and kheer to Mother Lakshmi, the Goddess of prosperity.
The rest of the day is filled with family lunches and teas, naturally the tables are heavily laden with vegetarian meals and sweets! We also spend time in the day delivering sweet parcels to friends and family. As sunset approaches homes are illuminated with diyas.
The discharge of fireworks remains a contentious issue and residents are encouraged to adhere to the municipal bylaws.
They are further encouraged to take into account the impact the discharge of fireworks has on domestic pets, the elderly, young children, wildlife and the environment.
This is also a reminder to the public that in terms of bylaws relating to the control of fireworks, the following fireworks are illegal: Indian King, Classic Foil, King India or those commonly known as bombs.
On this auspicious celebration of light, I would like to extend well wishes to all Hindus. Have a joyous and safe celebration. Shubh Diwali.
Download The North Coast Courier mobile app, now available free from the Apple iStore and on Google Play, for IOS and Android phones.
Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news.
Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here, or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.
