The Click

Photos by Vanshika Sharma 

Diwali, commonly known in America as the Festival of Lights, is considered by Hindu Americans as the most important holiday of the year, like Christmas and New Year’s combined. But the festival is not just about lights. Like many aspects of Hinduism, there are many levels of interpretation to the symbolism of this festival. According to the Hindu epic, Ramayana, the lighting of the lamps is the celebration of the triumphant return home of Lord Rama after defeating Ravana, a scholarly but egotistical and destructive king. For many, Diwali is a celebration of the moral victory of good over evil and the destruction of the negative qualities of individuals and society. Philosophically, the symbolism of light and darkness  is considered by all as celebration of the value of spiritual knowledge and the negation of ignorance of the true nature of the Self. The Self is the union (Yoga) of the individual (Aatma) and the formless absolute Oneness (Om). All of these complex themes and symbols manifest themselves during the celebrations, creating a bounty of delicious foods, colorful forms, festive fireworks, and music. The following pictures capture the essence of how my family celebrates Diwali, a day filled with devotion, colors, food, and fun.