Dr. Shiben Krishen Raina
India is a vast country where people from diverse religions and backgrounds co-exist. This richness of cultures and traditions has given rise to a number of festivals and celebrations, each with its unique significance. While every festival holds its special place in our society, Diwali, also known as ‘Deepavali’, stands out as a celebration that radiates happiness, enthusiasm, and cultural heritage. Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a time when we illuminate our surroundings with lamps and candles. Beyond its visual splendor, this festival carries a profound message. It encourages us to dispel the darkness of ignorance and evil that may hang around in our hearts and society. Diwali is a festival for everyone, transcending age, gender, and social status. People of all walks of life come together to celebrate it with great enthusiasm. On this day, it’s not just about the external lights but also about kindling the virtues and goodness within ourselves. We should make a pledge to not only focus on the external radiance but also to illuminate our hearts with positivity. It’s a time to reflect on the world around us and strive to eliminate poverty, hunger, illiteracy, and other societal evils including religious frenzy and fury. The idea to illuminate our environs on the occasion of Diwali is to spread the light of goodness in a world where darkness still persists. The couplet “Diye jalao par rahe dhyan itna, andhera dharti par kahi rah na paaye” (Light lamps, indeed, but ensure that darkness finds no place on the Earth anywhere) carries a profound message. It urges us to be the beacons of hope and change, not just within ourselves but in the world at large. Diwali is a festival that conveys a message of goodwill, righteousness, and unity. It should be celebrated with unwavering devotion and purity to ensure that no unpleasant incidents mar the festivities. Let us create an atmosphere of joy and exuberance all around, spreading happiness and unity. From a spiritual perspective, Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness. Just as a lamp dispels the darkness around it, the inner light of knowledge can remove the ignorance within us. The lamp represents the flame of self-realization that can awaken the inactive wisdom and consciousness within us. In conclusion, Diwali is more than just a festival of lights; it is a festival of joy, goodwill, and spiritual awakening. It encourages us to embrace the light within and spread positivity and kindness in a world that often grapples with darkness. Let us celebrate Diwali with deep devotion, purity, and a commitment to make the world a better place for all. As we light our lamps, let us also ignite the light of knowledge and compassion within ourselves, ensuring that the darkness of ignorance, intolerance, rigidity and negativity finds no place around us and on the Earth as a whole.
( The writer is Ex Senior Fellow,
Ministry of Culture).
