Diwali (also known as Deepavali, meaning 'row of lamps'), is known as the Festival of Lights and is a Hindu, Sikh, and Jain festival that originated in India. Diwali / Deepavali celebrates the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. The festival has a different significance for different people. Many Hindus in the diaspora also celebrate the birth of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity on this day. In Bengal, Diwali honours the Goddess Kali. In South India, the festival of lights signifies illuminating the dark corners of our life and filling it with strength and the zeal to carry on with our goodwill toward others for the rest of the year. Diwali / Deepavali is celebrated around the world.
For Sikhs, the festival commemorates the return of the sixth guru, Guru Hargobind to the holy city of Amritstar after his release from detention. For the Jain community, it commemorates the passing into Nirvana of Mahavira. It also may be the beginning of a new year for farmers who plant their crops after Diwali, as well as for business people and merchants who traditionally settle all accounts on this day and begin the new financial year. Everywhere it is celebrated, Diwali signifies the renewal of life.
To celebrate this joyous and important festival, people get together with friends and family, exchange gifts of sweets and greet each other with the words 'Shubh Diwali’. Some set off fireworks and wear new clothes. Many light little clay lamps, called dipas or diyas, candles and even neon lights.
We wish students, staff, and members of the community who celebrate Diwali or Deepavali, a happy and festive time with friends and family.
Diwali (also known as Deepavali, meaning 'row of lamps'), is known as the Festival of Lights and is a Hindu, Sikh, and Jain festival that originated in India. Diwali / Deepavali celebrates the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. The festival has a different significance for different people. Many Hindus in the diaspora also celebrate the birth of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity on this day. In Bengal, Diwali honours the Goddess Kali. In South India, the festival of lights signifies illuminating the dark corners of our life and filling it with strength and the zeal to carry on with our goodwill toward others for the rest of the year. Diwali / Deepavali is celebrated around the world.
For Sikhs, the festival commemorates the return of the sixth guru, Guru Hargobind to the holy city of Amritstar after his release from detention. For the Jain community, it commemorates the passing into Nirvana of Mahavira. It also may be the beginning of a new year for farmers who plant their crops after Diwali, as well as for business people and merchants who traditionally settle all accounts on this day and begin the new financial year. Everywhere it is celebrated, Diwali signifies the renewal of life.
To celebrate this joyous and important festival, people get together with friends and family, exchange gifts of sweets and greet each other with the words 'Shubh Diwali’. Some set off fireworks and wear new clothes. Many light little clay lamps, called dipas or diyas, candles and even neon lights.
Schools will be acknowledging this festival through a variety of activities that promote sharing and understanding among students and staff.
We wish students, staff, and members of the community who celebrate Diwali or Deepavali, a happy and festive time with friends and family.