November 1-5 Heritage & Cultural Highlight: Diwali

About

Deepavali or Diwali is known as the “Festival of Lights” and is a Hindu, Jain, and SikhDiwali 2024 holiday widely celebrated in India, in South Asia, and across the world. It lasts five days and the date each year is based on the lunar calendar. The word ‘Deepavali’ derives from Sanskrit and means “row of lights.” Festivities include the illumination of lights, candles, firecrackers, and diya (clay lamps) to symbolize the victory of good over evil, inner light over spiritual darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is a time for gathering with loved ones, celebrating life, and committing to making the right decisions in life. 

Learning

Learn about Diwali as it is celebrated by Hindu Americans from the Hindu American Foundation

Would you ever travel to India to celebrate Diwali? Join CNN in learning about what it would be like! Or learn even more at NatGeo.

Doing

You can celebrate Diwali right here in the Triangle!

  • Saturday, November 16th 2024; Doors open - 6:00 pm. at 309 Aviation Pkwy, Morrisville, NC

    Experience the joy of Diwali through a flavorful dinner. Savory appetizers, aromatic mains, and sweet treats await, all amidst the glow of traditional lamps. Join us for a festive feast that celebrates the essence of Diwali - family, flavors, and lights. Find more information and purchase tickets here.

  • Diwali Live Concert and Food Festival on Saturday, November 2 at 5pm in Apex, NC Experience the joy of Diwali with a live concert and savor the flavors of Anjappar's delicious food. This event is sponsored by Anjappar Cary and Anjappar Durham and offers a 20% discount on tickets using code 'Anjappar20'.

Conversation Starters

Here are some questions to start conversations with others about Diwali. For leaders, try building in time in supervisions or team meetings to prompt staff conversations about Diwali. Options could include:

  • Did you learn anything new about Diwali, or did you discover that you previously misunderstood something about Diwali?
  • How did you participate in Diwali?