ON Monday millions of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists around the world celebrate Diwali, also known as the festival of lights.

The religious festival is a time to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, but it is also a time for family and giving back.

Diwali is derived from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, which means ‘row of lights’, and three members from the Umhlanga Hindu Society (UHS) spoke to Northglen News about what the auspicious festival means to them.

Somerset Park resident Suveshan Nadasen said the best part of Diwali was delivering parcels to family and friends around Durban.

Also read: Durban North exhibition showcases local talent

“It’s a time of celebration and to be with family. As a family we do delivery of parcels and sweetmeats drop off at around 40 homes. We leave home at about 09:00 and are back around 18:00. We then have a dinner and celebrate with fireworks display, music and dance,” he said.

Something the UHS has also promoted over the last few years is the Diwali Hamper Drive which is a collection of essential items for the underprivileged.

For Oomeshnee Chetty the collection promotes the concept of Seva or selfless service.

“I try and spread the word about the collection through my social media. I think Seva is something every Hindu practices. As much as we have our own fun with family and friends and we are grateful for what we have, it’s important to give back to the underprivileged so they can also celebrate the special day,” she said.

For Durban North resident, Arya Singh, the day takes on added significance because the youth committee is hosting a Diwali festival at the temple on Hambridge Avenue.

Also read: Action in Autism hosts skills workshop in Durban North

“The committee will be putting together a play on the story of Diwali, why it’s celebrated and its significance. Those who aren’t involved in the play, we have some younger children performing, singing and dancing,” Singh said. “Diwali is also a time for family and I’m looking forward to seeing my family as we will be travelling to Pietermaritzburg. We all live busy lives and I feel the day brings us together and it’s a celebratory atmosphere filled with joy and love.”

For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook , X or  Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here