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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
Too Much of My Life Is Going by Too Fast
2
Finney Injury Law Scholarship Winners Announced
2
Tips for Drivers and Riders to Prevent Motorcycle Accidents
3
Lucca, the Explosive-Sniffing Dog
3
The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
4
A Guide to India’s Vibrant Festival of Lights
Diwali’s Festival of Lights INSIDE INDIA’S BIGGEST HOLIDAY
India’s biggest holiday, Diwali, is celebrated by over one billion people yearly and is gaining prominence in the U.S. In 2022, President Biden held the largest White House Diwali celebration to date, and New York City has made it a public school holiday. But even as Americans recognize it more than ever, many still don’t know the day exists. Diwali is also known as the Festival of Lights, and celebrations take place across five days every year. The schedule for Diwali follows the lunar calendar, much like Easter, so the dates of celebration change. While it usually falls in October, this year’s Diwali will occur on Nov. 12, with celebrations taking place Nov. 10–14. So, there’s still plenty of time to plan if you want to participate!
Hindi Indians have celebrated Diwali for more than 2,500 years, but with many stories associated with its origins, scholars are unsure when the festival started. However, the festival is inextricably linked with the victory of good versus evil and the god Krishna. It also marks the birth of the goddess Lakshmi. For Jains and Sikhs, the holiday holds other religious significance. Much like Christmas in the U.S., Diwali now has a secular cultural meaning, and non-religious people also celebrate. Many consider Diwali a fresh start, much like New Year’s Day. People celebrate with firecrackers and rows of lamps, representing the triumph of light over darkness. Each of the five festival days has its own name and meaning.
The festival is named for the third day, which hosts the most significant celebration. Families wear their best clothes, gather for large meals, and celebrate with song and dance. If you’ve never celebrated Diwali, you can count on all six Hindu Temples in the St. Louis area to engage in festivities. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir will hold events on Nov. 12 and 13, while other temples will likely announce plans soon. Call ahead to confirm that they welcome non- congregants, but most are pleased to share their traditions with respectful newcomers. Happy Diwali!
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