From the 28th October the Diwali celebrations have started all over the world. Hindus and Sikhs celebrate this festival for the sole reason of bring the community together under the branch of religion.

Diwali follows the Hindu lunisolar calendar meaning every year the dates are different, however for us it is always in Autumn. Perfect to bring out lights as the nights get darker. The celebrations start two days before the auspicious day and two days after they are known as Dhanteras and Bhai Dooj.    

Fireworks is a main aspect of Diwali, they portray the happiness of the people from the Hindu mythology- Rama and Sita. In the story, Rama and Sita are banished to the forest with his brother Lakshman by the evil queen, who is married to their father the King. A demon tricks Sita and kidnaps her to Sri Lanka. Rama and Lakshman have a great war to fight back Sita and destroy the demon kingdom. After their victory they return to their homeland where the citizens light up the way to castle with lamps and spark fireworks to celebrate their victory; hence why lamps are lit during Diwali.  

“It’s a time to gather and gift everyone under the blessings of god.”

Many Indians prepare masses of traditional sweets and snacks, the whole family joins in activities like decorating the house with lights and Diyas (traditional lamps), preparing the sweets and setting up the idols for prayers. Sweets and snacks made on Diwali are shared throughout the community as a sign of wellbeing and generosity. Communities gather for culture parties and showcases of talents and pujas (prayer ceremonies).

The Orpington desi group (Indian community) is preparing to have a function on the 5th November, something to look out for.

So probably expect fireworks and Christmas (Diwali) lights up already, instead of being surprised you now know why.