Igniting the light within

Diwali – the Indian festival of lights – fell on 24th October this year. It is widely celebrated by the Indian population. I was happy to take part in the celebrations with the Meditation Museum family. This is a letter of appreciation of traditional values and cultures. I will walk you through different aspects of Diwali and what they mean to me as a student, as a daughter, as an employee, but most importantly, as a human being.

When we light a candle, it is as though our negative thoughts are melting away. The wisdom that resides in each of us is the fuel, the oil that keeps us going. Here, lighting candles symbolizes lighting our inner happiness, sharing the fragrance of hope, of maintaining a sense of self-worth. It is to spread goodness from the heart in all that we do through our mind.

Next, we exchange gifts, candies, and sweets during Diwali. It signifies sharing of joy, of contentment. This is to better and sweeten the relationship with ourselves and with others (next time you are out for Trick-o-Treat, think about this!).

On Diwali, we make a rangoli in our house. This is a design that is made of colored sand. It represents our vibrant nature. As the different colors come together in beautiful art, people with different personalities can come together to be a part of a beautiful, happy world.

People also like to buy new clothes on Diwali. Think about the time when you wore a new dress, how did it feel? It brings a sense of newness and excitement. When you feel stuck, take a break, come back with a fresh start. A new perspective can make everything better.

The month leading up to Diwali, there is an emphasis on cleaning our physical space – even those nooks and corners where dust might be hidden and usually goes unnoticed! Whenever I clean out my closet or my study desk, I just feel, well, clean! It helps the mind to de-clutter and focus on priorities. It also gives way to a clean heart where there is no trace of jealousy, comparison, irritation, or disappointment.

People host Diwali parties, where families join in a big social gathering. This brings a sense of togetherness, cheerfulness. It is a good reminder to be in the company of those who you feel comfortable with, who make you smile 😊

When we are together on Diwali, we take a moment to worship and remember our innate divine values. This is an invitation for good health and prosperity in our lives, amplified by being sincere and authentic to the self and with others.

After this, we light fireworks and crackers. This symbolizes excitement, bliss, joy, and abundance. When we get our dream job, meet a partner with whom we can just be ourselves, walk down in a graduation ceremony, get acknowledged for a big project we just completed, what do we feel? Sparkles of happiness!

Diwali is celebrated after Dussehra where we commemorate victory of goodness over evil. Next time you are in a moment of contemplation, ask yourself, “What makes me happy from within?”

Takeaway: From this day onwards, let each day be a celebration of being alive. Burn away any negativity, surround yourself with good people, and be grateful for the good things in life. Keep your happiness lit!