Dear Editor,

THE Sanatan Vaidic Dharma Pandits’ Sabha, Region Three, extends Shubh Diwali to the entire nation. We wish everyone experience and contribute to the positive and spiritually uplifting spirit of Diwali.

Diwali captures and celebrates the exuberance of life in all aspects. From traditional foods, dance, music, folklore and rituals to the discovery of the Divine Self in us; the purpose and journey of life and the ultimate goal are all netted in the beauty of the festival. Diwali is ‘Pancha Parva’ or a five-day celebration beginning two days prior to Deepaavali and concluding two days after. Different section of the Hindu population observes either all five of the days or a few only.

What is central, however, in the observance of all these days of light celebration, pomp and festivity is the message and teaching of humanity finding the good in ourselves. It is a celebration of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and, ultimately, the attainment of the Light Divine ever latent within. Little earthen lamps (diyas) symbolic of our finite Jeeva (body, mind, and tendencies) are lit in this celebration from a larger diya symbolic of the Supreme Light (God). The symbology here is divinely deep as it is philosophical. It demonstrates the relationship between creation and creator—a constant dependence of creation on the creator for sustenance. In the final analysis, Diwali provides the platform to remind all of our inner light source and the need to consciously connect from within so that we may bring forth, through thoughts and actions, the good in us.

Diwali is filled with numerous inspiring stories, legend and literature–all aimed at bringing out the best in us and help us to reflect on the sacredness of life itself.  As is our tradition here, Deepavali is the festival of Lakshmee Poojaa and the return of Lord Raama from exile to the city of Ayodhya. As Sri Raam’s path was lit, may we too light our path with the diya of knowledge, faith and devotion.

Once again, the Sabha wishes all a blessed and happy Diwali.

Yours sincerely,

Sanatan Vaidic Dharma Pandits’ Sabha, Region Three