I am writing to you from the city of Hyderabad (Where at the moment, in the midst of all of the fireworks going off, it sounds a bit like a warzone...)! We are currently on our month long trip through India- taking us to five cities in three weeks. In Hyderabad, we are staying at a hostel in a convent (which has been interesting…) as we complete our final course essay for our Environment, Ecology, and Livelihood class.
Tonight, November 13th, is Diwali— the festival of lights! Celebrated by Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs, the holiday is observed for slightly different reasons depending on the religion, but all in all it is a time spent with family, friends, and LOTS of fireworks, all in admiration of a central theme in countless faiths, light. (Check out the info graph I attached below for more facts and details about this holiday!)
One of the girls on the trip happened to have a birthday that coincides with Diwali, so we took a break from our paper writing this evening and ventured out to a nearby restaurant to celebrate. The streets were absolutely chaotic! People have been setting off fireworks incessantly for the past few days (if you thought the noise on the 4th of July in the US was bad…), but tonight the festivities culminated to a new level. As we worked to navigate the streets, we had to dodge many firecrackers as they were lit at our feet. A man even offered one of us a sparkler! All along the pavement, people had drawn colorful mandalas adorned with soft candles, and strings of lights and lanterns decorated fences, storefronts, and homes. The lively energy permeating through the city and its people was enough to contend with the bright lights, colors, and constant spark of the fireworks. All in all, it was a wonderful night.
For me, the most inspiring aspect of this holiday is that, though it is observed by different faiths, a common piece of celebration is still found. No matter what your religious beliefs – or even if you don’t hold any at all – the concept of light is something that we all can share. Perhaps for some it signifies one person or deity. For others, it may be a special place, an idea, the company of a friend, a memory, or a hope. It could be a piece of inspiration, comforting words, a drive towards liberation, love for others, or a wish for a better tomorrow. Whatever your light is, share it, and be open to hearing about how light shines differently in the lives of others. Take it as an opportunity, regardless of one’s beliefs or background, to learn from those and the world around us. Whether your light is a blazing firecracker, a shimmering sparkler, or a softly gleaming candle— let it glow. Together, with all of our different lights, we will burn all the brighter.
Happy Diwali! And whatever light represents for you, hold it, share it, and welcome it with love.
Peace,
Zoë
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| A Mandala and candles outside of a house on Diwali night. |
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| Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/12/diwali-2012-festival-of-lights-photos_n_2115208.html?utm_hp_ref=interfaith#17_cool-infographic-on-diwali |
