Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, is the most popular of all the festivals from South Asia.
It is also the occasion for celebrations by Jains and Sikhs.
The festival celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance, although the actual legends that go with the festival are different in different parts of India.
In a recent editorial, the Times of India summed up the modern meaning of Diwali: “Regardless of the mythological explanation one prefers, what the festival of lights really stands for today is a reaffirmation of hope, a renewed commitment to friendship and goodwill, and a religiously sanctioned celebration of the simple, and some not so simple, joys of life.”
Increasing relevance
The relevance of Diwali today is greater than ever before.
In this world, torn apart by wars, hunger and exploitation, Diwali assumes a significant meaning and gives us hope.
The hope that the truth will triumph, the weak will get the voice and that the peace will return.
Wars are fought not only between nations but within us; between the right and the wrong.
We need to kill the demons that reside inside us and only then can we bring ‘Ram Rajya,’ known for peace, benevolence and order.
New Zealand is fast becoming a multicultural society and it is very heartening to see how Diwali has been embraced by one and all.
The fact that we celebrate Diwali in the Parliament is testament to the generous and welcoming Kiwi culture.
Manukau Diwali
Manukau Indian Association feels proud to be one of the organisations that brought this recognition to Diwali in Aotearoa.
We use this occasion not only to showcase the Indian culture but also encourage young and old people of other cultures to present their talent.
This year Manukau Indian Association is proud to partner with Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust and Humm FM to bring you Manukau Diwali 2012.
It will be held at Telstra Clear Pacific Centre in Manukau on Saturday, November 10, 2012.
Entry to the event as well as parking will be free.
There will be plenty of food and craft stalls at the event.
The indoor programme will be held from 1 pm to 830 pm, culminating in grand fireworks at 9 pm.
In the true spirit of Diwali, “The night is black; Kindle the lamp of love with thy life and devotion.”
Dr Anil Channa is a former President of the Manukau Indian Association and organiser of its Diwali 2012 Festival. He is seen here with Auckland Mayor Len Brown lighting the traditional lamp at Manukau Diwali 2011. The other picture shows a group of performers at the Festival. Another report about Manukau Diwali appears elsewhere in this Special Report.
