From Darkness to Radiance: Unpacking the Symbolism of Diwali

Dear Beloved Yogis,

Many of you have asked me about the significance of various Indian festivals. I decided to write about them in a blog form as those festival come around. Today I am excited to share with you the vibrant festival of Diwali – a festival close to my heart that finds its roots in the cultural kaleidoscope of India. Embarking on this exploration, we’ll uncover the integral role Diwali plays in Hindu culture, discovering the profound connections between its radiant traditions and the transformative principles we embrace on our yoga journey.

So, Join me as we immerse ourselves in the luminous celebration of Diwali, drawing parallels between its ancient wisdom and the timeless teachings of yoga.

Let me start with a Vedic prayer from the Rig vedas:

ॐ असतो मा सद्गमय ।
तमसो मा ज्योतिर्गमय ।
मृत्योर्मा अमृतं गमय ।
ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः ॥
Om Asato Maa Sad-Gamaya |
Tamaso Maa Jyotir-Gamaya |
Mrtyor-Maa Amrtam Gamaya |
Om Shaantih Shaantih Shaantih ||

Translation:

1: Om, (O Lord) From (the Phenomenal World of) Unreality, make me go (i.e. Lead me) towards the Reality (of Eternal Self),
2: From the Darkness (of Ignorance), make me go (i.e. Lead me) towards the Light (of Spiritual Knowledge),
3: From (the World of) Mortality (of Material Attachment), make me go (i.e. Lead me) towards the World of Immortality (of Self-Realization),
4: Om, Peace, Peace, Peace.

Envision yourself in the heart of India during Diwali, where homes shimmer with flickering oil lamps, vibrant rangoli designs adorn doorsteps, and the atmosphere resonates with the harmonious blend of joyous laughter and crackling fireworks. This spectacle encapsulates the very essence of Diwali, a festival cherished for its profound cultural and spiritual significance by millions around the globe.

At its core, Diwali signifies the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. The word “Diwali” is derived from the Sanskrit word “Deepavali,” where “deepa” means lamp or light, and “vali” means a row. The festival is a metaphorical row of lights illuminating the darkness, symbolizing the victory of knowledge over ignorance.

One of the central themes of Diwali is the celebration of Lord Rama’s return to his kingdom after defeating the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya welcomed him by lighting rows of lamps, and this tradition continues today. The lighting of diyas (oil lamps) represents the dispelling of darkness and the invitation of prosperity and well-being into our lives.

However, Diwali is not just about external celebrations. It’s an introspective time when individuals strive to dispel the darkness within themselves – ignorance, hatred, greed – and embrace the light of knowledge, love, and compassion. It’s a moment for self-reflection, a commitment to personal growth, and fostering harmonious relationships with those around us.

The spirit of Diwali extends beyond religious boundaries, uniting people from various cultural backgrounds. It’s a time when families come together, exchange gifts, and share festive meals. The exchange of sweets symbolizes the sweetness of life, while the bursting of fireworks represents the victory of light over darkness in a grand, joyous display.

For our Italian and European friends who may be unfamiliar with Diwali, it’s akin to your Christmas in terms of the joyous atmosphere, the importance of family and friends, and the overarching theme of spreading love and happiness. Diwali, like Christmas, transcends religious lines, inviting everyone to partake in the festivities and experience the warmth of shared celebrations.

So, as we light our own metaphorical lamps, let’s embrace the spirit of Diwali – a celebration that teaches us to be the light in someone’s life, to dispel the darkness with kindness and understanding, and to revel in the joy of unity and shared happiness.

Wishing you all a Diwali filled with light, love, and laughter!

Light-filled greetings,

Aroonji

Here are a few links to read further about Diwali, as well as some YouTube videos that explain the festival in a deep, meaningful, and spiritual way:

Reading Resources:

YouTube Videos:

Enjoy your journey into the Festival of Lights!