Diverse culture, different languages and practices and yet, the unifying thought is hard to miss. A look at the Deepavali all over our Nation shows that, while there are similar practices, there are differences too, that makes this festival and my India unique.

This “Festival of lights” paves way to dispel the darkness of ignorance and spreads the light of knowledge. Deepavali is a festival where people from all age groups participate. They give expression to their happiness by lighting earthen 'diyas' (lamps), decorating the houses, and inviting near and dear ones to their households for partaking in a sumptuous feast.

 What is the significance of lighting a lamp? There is a logical answer to this question. It is through the light that the beauty of this world is revealed or experienced. The light has always been a symbol of whatever is positive in our world of experience, just as enlightened knowledge is to Man.

On the eve of Deepavali, children decked in colourful traditional dresses, decorated the floor with floral designs (Rangoli). The children along with their teachers lit the earthen lamps that enhanced the beauty of the floral designs. One of the teachers explained the mythology behind why Deepavali is celebrated and stressed upon the victory of good over evil. At the end of the Deepavali celebration, homemade sweets were distributed to all.