Posted by By Nicole Dhanraj
Diwali, what a splendid celebration! This festival holds a special place in my heart. I recall the cherished moments spent celebrating this auspicious occasion with my grandparents and family in the twin islands of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. What makes Diwali even more remarkable in this setting is that it is not just a celebration for those of the Hindu faith but a national celebration that unites people of diverse backgrounds.
The significance of Diwali transcends religious boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who partake in this beautiful festival. Diwali is also known as Diwali or Deepavali and is a festival that celebrates the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance and hope over despair. It is a time for families and communities to unite and celebrate the light within us all.
The Significance of Diwali
Diwali in Trinidad and Tobago holds a profound significance that resonates with people across cultures. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and the triumph of wisdom and virtue over ignorance. It’s a time when homes are meticulously cleaned and illuminated with thousands of lights, creating an atmosphere of positivity and hope.
Rituals and Traditions
Customs and traditions highlighted during the Diwali celebrations include lighting deeyas and candles, which symbolize the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and righteousness over unrighteousness. Other customs include the worship of the goddess Mother Lakshmi, who is known for bringing prosperity and good fortune, exchanging gifts and sweets, and the burst of fireworks, which adds a touch of grandeur to the celebration. Homes light a few to several hundred or even thousands of deeyas. The deeyas are traditional oil lamps commonly used in Hindu religious and cultural ceremonies. Deeyas can be made from various materials, but clay and brass diyas are the most frequently used. They come in multiple shapes and sizes. During Diwali, traditional clay diyas are particularly popular. During the day, they prepare the deeyas with oil, or ghee and cotton wicks and lay them in intricate patterns around the home and yard. The final cleaning and cooking are done until everyone gets ready for Lakshmi pooja (prayer), which starts at dusk. This is followed by the deeyas’ lighting and the evening celebrations.
Bamboo Bending and Bursting
In Trinidad and Tobago, a unique and thrilling tradition associated with Diwali is the bending and bursting of bamboo. Bamboo is typically shaped into arches or curved structures, forming intricate and artistic designs. These arches symbolize a pathway of light and goodness, guiding the way for the goddess Lakshmi. After bending the bamboo into the desired shape, it is adorned with all the deeyas. It is a remarkable sight, especially walking through the villages to see the twinkling of the lights.
In addition, large bamboo stalks are filled with fireworks, creating a mesmerizing and thunderous display of light and sound. This tradition brings a sense of excitement and wonder to the festivities, capturing the spirit of Diwali with a burst of joy. It brings a lot of giggles, especially with the younger crowd.
Culinary Delights, Cultural Activities and Fashion:
In the weeks leading up to Diwali, Trinidad and Tobago come alive with cultural celebrations. These events showcase traditional music, dance, and drama. There are reenactments of Ramleela, which is Lord Rama’s life and epic adventures, mainly focusing on his victory over the demon king Ravana. Ramleela performances during Diwali serve as a form of entertainment and education.
Diwali also offers tantalizing Indian cuisine. The culinary delights are a feast for the senses, from savory dhalpuri roti and delectable curries to delightful desserts such as jalebi, khurma, and barfi. In commemorating this festival filled with illumination and splendor, traditional and trendy Indian outfits are worn by men and women. The ladies and girls love the exquisite sarees, lehenga cholis, and ghararas. Men can also choose to wear outfits which include kurtas and sherwanis. For some events, a Diwali King and Queen are chosen.
The Global and Local Connection
While the festival originated in India, Diwali has transcended borders. Its recognition has grown on the global stage, with events like the lighting of the White House Diya in the United States. In Trinidad and Tobago, Diwali beautifully mirrors the nation’s diversity, with people of various backgrounds coming together in peace and harmony to celebrate this festival of light.
Multicultural Celebrations
Diwali is a celebration that brings people of diverse cultural backgrounds together to spread peace, joy, and kindness. The essence of Diwali is about unity and compassion for fellow humans, and this sentiment resonates with everyone.
Diwali is a festival that reminds us of the power of light to overcome darkness, good to overcome evil, and knowledge to overcome ignorance. It is also a time to celebrate the importance of family and community. As we celebrate Diwali, let us cherish the light within us all and work together to create a better world.
Let us also learn more about the diverse cultures that celebrate Diwali and participate in these celebrations in our communities. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels respected and valued.
This year, Diwali is celebrated on Sunday, November 12, 2023, and is a public holiday.
Shubh Diwali!
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Thank you Nicole for sharing! Happy Diwali & Happy New Year!