Diwali, or Deepavali, the ‘Festival of Lights,’ is one of the most vibrant, widely celebrated, and culturally significant festivals in India and among the Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and some Buddhist communities across the globe.Traditionally marking the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance, Diwali is a five-day extravaganza of spiritual reflection, grand feasts, new beginnings, and dazzling illuminations. In the United States, this ancient festival has transcended its origins to become a powerful symbol of the rich, multi-hued tapestry of American diversity. Celebrated by a large and influential Indian-American diaspora, Diwali in the U.S. is not merely a private religious observation; it has evolved into a public phenomenon, weaving its light into the national cultural fabric, gaining official recognition, and fostering a unique sense of community and connection.

Diwali’s Spiritual Significance and Ancient Roots

The spiritual core of Diwali is profound and multifold. “For Hindus, the central narrative often revolves around the return of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile and the defeat of the demon king Ravana.” The lighting of diyas (oil lamps) symbolizes the jubilant welcome and the victory of Dharma (righteousness). Other traditions honor the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, by performing puja (worship) to invite her blessings for the coming year. Jains celebrate it as the day of Mahavira’s moksha (liberation), while Sikhs mark it as Bandi Chhor Divas, the day Guru Hargobind was released from prison. Irrespective of the specific theological focus, the universal theme remains the same: the cleansing of the mind and the lighting of the inner self with knowledge and goodness. It is a time for introspection, renewal of commitment to family and community values, and charitable giving.

The Journey of Diwali to the United States

The celebration of Diwali began its formal journey to the United States in earnest following the 1965 Immigration and Nationality Act, which opened the doors to skilled professionals from India.  As the Indian-American population grew exponentially—now one of the largest Asian immigrant groups—so did the visibility and scale of their cultural observances. The first-generation immigrants brought with them not only their skills but also their deep-rooted traditions, determined to preserve their cultural heritage in a new land. Initially, celebrations were small, often confined to living rooms or limited community halls. Over decades, as the community flourished and established itself socially, economically, and politically, Diwali moved from the periphery to the mainstream, mirroring the growing influence of the Indian diaspora on American life.

How Indian-American Families Keep Traditions Alive

In the American suburban landscape, Indian-American families meticulously recreate the ambiance of Diwali. Weeks before the festival, homes are thoroughly cleaned, a practice known as ghar ki safai, symbolizing the spiritual purification necessary for the goddess Lakshmi’s arrival. This is followed by elaborate decorating: stringing up bright electric lights, arranging fresh flowers, and creating intricate rangoli (colorful floor patterns) at the entrance. The main day involves the Lakshmi Puja, where the family gathers to offer prayers, often followed by the traditional lighting of diyas and the exchange of gifts and homemade sweets. For many, these family rituals are crucial, serving as a vital link to their ancestry and a mechanism for passing on cultural identity to American-born children.

Community Celebrations: Temples, Cultural Centers, and Gatherings

Beyond the family unit, the heartbeat of Diwali in the U.S. is found in vibrant, large-scale community celebrations. “Hindu temples and cultural centers become hubs of activity, hosting elaborate puja ceremonies that draw thousands of attendees”. “These public gatherings, often called Diwali Melas, feature cultural programs, traditional Indian music and dance performances, food stalls offering regional delicacies, and bazaars selling ethnic clothing and handicrafts”. These events serve as crucial platforms for cross-cultural exchange and provide a profound sense of belonging for the diaspora, transforming parking lots and civic centers into temporary, brightly-lit microcosms of India.

Lighting Diyas in a New Land: Symbolism and Adaptations

The simple act of lighting a clay diya or lamp carries enormous symbolic weight during Diwali. In the U.S., while traditional diyas are widely used, adaptations have naturally emerged. Electric lights and LED strings often supplement or replace the traditional lamps, offering a more convenient and fire-safe way to illuminate homes in modern structures. The practice of lighting has also expanded to include public spaces. From the windows of suburban homes to the marquees of community halls, the radiant glow serves as a visible, collective statement of hope, peace, and the enduring power of inner light against external challenges.

Food, Sweets, and the Joy of Sharing

Diwali is synonymous with a magnificent feast, and in America, the culinary preparations are paramount. The festival demands a plethora of savory snacks (namkeen) and rich, labor-intensive sweets (mithai) like laddoos, jalebis, gulab jamun, and barfi. Preparing these delicacies is a shared, multi-generational activity. The joy of Diwali is expressed through the ritualistic exchange of these sweets with friends, family, and neighbors—a tangible act of goodwill and spreading prosperity. This culinary exchange often becomes a point of cultural pride, with home-cooked Indian sweets and meals being introduced to non-Indian friends and colleagues.

Diwali Fashion and Traditional Attire in America

Dressing in new, traditional attire is an essential part of the Diwali festivities, symbolizing a new beginning. In the U.S., the celebration is a chance for Indian-Americans to showcase the exquisite artistry of their heritage. Women don vibrant sarees, lehengas, and salwar kameez, often adorned with intricate embroidery and mirror-work. Men wear elegant kurta-pajamas or sherwanis. This fashion parade extends beyond family homes to the community melas, where the vibrant colors and traditional textiles stand out against the backdrop of contemporary America, acting as a visual celebration of their identity. The demand for these clothes has even spurred a thriving niche market of Indian boutiques and online retailers across major metropolitan areas.

Youth and Second-Generation Perspectives

For the second and third generations of Indian-Americans, Diwali holds a unique duality. While they embrace the festival with enthusiasm, their experience is often a blend of inherited tradition and American influence. For some, it is the only time they fully immerse themselves in Indian language, food, and culture. They navigate the challenge of reconciling a traditional Indian holiday with their school and work schedules. Many youth are actively involved in modernizing the celebrations, using social media to share the festival’s meaning and hosting “fusion” parties, ensuring the tradition remains relevant in their American context. They are the future custodians, finding creative ways to keep the light alive.

Diwali Celebrated in the White House

“The celebration of Diwali in the White House is perhaps the most prominent symbol of the festival’s ascent in American public life.” The tradition, which began during the George W. Bush administration in 2003 with ceremonial lighting in the Indian Treaty Room, was later significantly elevated. President Barack Obama became the first president to personally light a diya in the East Room in 2009, making the commitment a presidential one. Subsequent administrations, including that of Donald Trump, continued the practice.President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have hosted the largest and most elaborate Diwali receptions to date, drawing hundreds of Indian-American and South Asian community leaders, diplomats, and administration officials. These receptions typically feature remarks from the President and First Lady acknowledging the profound contributions of the community, cultural performances, and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. The White House Diwali celebration is a powerful, visual affirmation that the ‘Festival of Lights’ is an integral part of the American experience, symbolizing the nation’s embrace of a diverse religious and cultural landscape. This annual event sends a clear message of inclusion and recognition from the highest office in the land, underscoring the festival’s status as a celebrated American holiday.

Diwali in U.S. Universities: A Festival of Light on Campus

On campuses across America, Diwali has become a vibrant celebration of culture, faith, and community. In Florida, universities such as the University of Florida (UF) in Gainesville and the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando host lively Diwali nights organized by Indian Student Associations. These events typically feature rangoli competitions, Bollywood dance performances, bhajans, and a community dinner where Indian food is shared with students of all backgrounds. At UF, the annual “Diwali Show” fills large auditoriums with hundreds of students, while UCF’s Indian Student Association coordinates cultural showcases and fireworks displays that often attract local community members as well. In Miami, Florida International University (FIU) celebrates Diwali with campus gatherings that blend traditional pujas with student-led music and dance, making it a highlight of the academic year.

In neighboring Georgia, the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) in Atlanta hosts one of the Southeast’s largest collegiate Diwali celebrations. Georgia Tech’s India Club organizes “Diwali Show,” an event attended by thousands, featuring elaborate stage productions, dance competitions, fashion shows, and a feast of Indian food. The University of Georgia (UGA) in Athens also celebrates Diwali annually, with its Indian Student Association welcoming students and faculty to a night of devotional songs, folk dances, and festive sweets.

Together, these celebrations in Florida and Georgia not only provide cultural continuity for Indian-American students but also create opportunities for the wider campus community to learn, enjoy, and participate in the richness of Indian traditions. They reflect how Diwali has become a bridge between cultures, shining brightly in the academic and social life of U.S. universities.

Official Recognition: Holidays, Proclamations, and More

Perhaps the most significant change in recent years has been Diwali’s official recognition across the U.S. In 2024, Pennsylvania became the first state to declare Diwali an official state holiday, followed closely by Connecticut. New York City added Diwali to its public school calendar in 2023, giving nearly a million students a day off. In Florida, Broward County Public Schools approved Diwali as a holiday beginning in October 2025, a milestone for Hindu representation in the South. Counties such as Milwaukee (WI), St. Louis (MO), St. Charles (MO), and Waukesha (WI) have issued proclamations, and dozens of cities—including Naperville, Aurora, Schaumburg, Skokie, Peoria, and St. Louis—have recognized Hindu festivals officially. Florida cities like Altamonte Springs, Palatka, Coral Springs, Tamarac, Parkland, Davie, and Pembroke Pines have also passed proclamations honoring Diwali and Hindu Heritage Month. These acknowledgments highlight the festival’s growing acceptance in American civic life, bridging cultures and validating the traditions of millions of Indian-Americans.

Corporate America Embraces Diwali: Diversity and Inclusion

Corporate America has not lagged in recognizing the importance of Diwali. Major multinational companies now regularly organize Diwali events for their employees, complete with Indian food, music, and the lighting of lamps. This embrace is a clear manifestation of diversity and inclusion initiatives, acknowledging the significant contributions of Indian-American employees. It serves to foster a more inclusive workplace environment and validates the cultural identities of their staff. Tech giants like Google and Microsoft lead this trend. Microsoft, for instance, actively supports its Asians at Microsoft Employee Resource Group (ERG), which organizes large-scale Diwali events at its campuses, featuring traditional Indian food, intricate rangoli decorations, diya painting activities, and employees dressed in traditional attire. These celebrations bring a bit of “home” to immigrant employees and share the culture with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. Google often celebrates by launching festive-themed campaigns, like its past “Keep Traditions Alive” campaign that highlighted the diverse ways families celebrate, and through its Google Arts & Culture platform, which offers digital content, games, and lesson plans about Diwali legends and customs. This institutional recognition is a vital component of modern workplace culture.

Fusion Celebrations: Blending East and West

The American experience of Diwali is often a fascinating study in cultural fusion. Celebrations frequently blend traditional Indian rituals with American social norms. Traditional puja might be followed by a potluck dinner featuring Indian and non-Indian dishes. Indian classical dance and music performances at community events may share the stage with Bollywood-inspired dances. The blending of Indian traditional wear with modern accessories is also common. This fusion is not a dilution of tradition but a dynamic evolution, showcasing the adaptability and vibrant cross-pollination of cultures.

Charity, Seva, and the Spirit of Giving Back

The spirit of seva (selfless service) and charity is integral to Diwali. In the U.S., this manifests through various charitable activities. Many Indian-American organizations and families use the occasion to organize food drives, donate clothes, and raise funds for local and international non-profits. The philosophy of sharing prosperity and caring for the less fortunate ensures that the celebration extends beyond personal festivities, embodying the victory of compassion over indifference.

Challenges of Celebrating Diwali Abroad

Despite the growing acceptance, celebrating Diwali in the U.S. presents unique challenges. The biggest is the lack of a uniform federal holiday, meaning many families must observe the five-day festival while managing school and work schedules. This often forces them to compress the celebration into a weekend. Furthermore, the distance from India sometimes means a lack of access to specific ingredients, decorations, or the collective, spontaneous atmosphere of a Diwali night in South Asia, necessitating a greater level of planning and coordination.

Diwali as a Bridge: Strengthening U.S.–India Cultural Ties

Diwali in America acts as a powerful cultural bridge, reinforcing the bonds between the U.S. and India. The grand-scale celebrations, the involvement of elected officials, and the increasing media coverage serve to normalize Indian culture in the American consciousness. This cultural diplomacy, led by the diaspora, complements the growing strategic and economic partnership between the two nations, providing a warm, human face to the bilateral relationship.

Stories of Non-Indians Who Celebrate Diwali

Diwali’s universal themes of light, hope, and community have drawn non-Indians into the celebration. Neighbors are often invited to puja ceremonies and feasts, and college students participate in campus events. This cross-cultural engagement is organic and heartfelt, as individuals from various backgrounds find common ground in the festival’s message. For many, it offers a window into the rich traditions of their Indian-American friends, leading to a deeper mutual understanding and appreciation that enriches the cultural landscape of America.

BAPS Mandir Celebrations: Annakut—A Grand Display of Devotion

The BAPS (Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha) Swaminarayan Mandirs across the U.S., such as those in Robbinsville, New Jersey; Chino Hills, California; and Atlanta, Georgia, are centers for some of the most spectacular and spiritually significant Diwali observances, especially the Annakut festival. Annakut, meaning ‘a mountain of food,’ is celebrated the day after Diwali and marks the start of the Hindu New Year for the Swaminarayan tradition.This celebration is a profound display of gratitude to God, involving volunteers preparing an immense offering of vegetarian food. Typically, hundreds of dedicated volunteers meticulously prepare more than 300 to 400 different food items—ranging from traditional Indian sweets and savories to innovative fusion dishes—all arranged in elaborate, multi-tiered artistic displays before the sacred images of the deities. Throughout the day, thousands of devotees and visitors—often exceeding 3,000 people in the larger Mandirs—attend to view this grand offering, participate in the continuous devotional singing, and witness the arti (a ritual of worship with lamps) performed nearly every hour. The BAPS Annakut is a truly breathtaking event that showcases devotion, unity, and community service on a monumental scale.

The Future of Diwali in America: Growing Recognition and Acceptance

The trajectory of Diwali in the U.S. points toward ever-greater recognition and acceptance. As the Indian-American community continues to grow and assume positions of influence in all sectors, the festival’s status will only be cemented. The increasing adoption of Diwali as an official school holiday in districts like New York City and Broward County, Florida, suggests a broader societal shift. The future will see Diwali seamlessly integrated into the national calendar, celebrated not just by the diaspora but embraced by all Americans as a cherished and universal expression of light and hope.

Keeping the Light Alive Across Generations

Diwali in the United States is a powerful testament to the immigrant experience—a story of cultural preservation, adaptation, and integration. It is a vibrant annual reminder that America’s strength lies in its diversity. “From the intimate glow of a diya in a suburban living room to the grand scale of the BAPS Annakut and the official recognition in the White House, the Festival of Lights has found a new, radiant home”. As each generation carries the torch forward, the flames of Diwali will continue to illuminate the American landscape, symbolizing the enduring victory  of hope, goodness, and unity for all.

A Historic 75 Seconds: The Story Behind the First Diwali at the White House

By Dr. Piyush Agrawal

In 2003, President George W. Bush (43) was traveling across the country for his re-election campaign. During his September stop in Fort Lauderdale, he expressed interest in meeting my son Akhil, who was one of the major fundraisers for his campaign. The President’s office called Akhil to arrange the meeting, but Akhil graciously suggested that the President meet with me instead.

Soon after, the President’s secretary called to schedule the meeting. I politely made one request—I wanted a one-on-one conversation with the President. She said she would confirm with him and call back. Within ten minutes, she returned with approval: I could meet the President privately, but the meeting would be limited to 90 seconds. I accepted, and the date, time, and location were set. Later, the time was trimmed down to 75 seconds.

I now found myself in a unique position. Meeting the President of the United States face-to-face was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I wanted to make the most of it. My sons were hoping he would take action against the practice of bundling federal contracts, which would have helped their businesses. My focus, however, was on something with broader benefit to the community: bringing Diwali to the White House.

With only 75 seconds to speak, I knew I couldn’t waste a moment explaining Diwali from scratch. So, I decided to address two key points during the meeting.

First, since 9/11, the President had only mentioned Christians, Jews, and Muslims in his public remarks. I respectfully pointed out that Hindus—numbering over a billion globally—were being left out and asked that he include Hindus going forward. He immediately agreed, and just twenty minutes later, during his Fort Lauderdale speech, he added Hindus by name.

Second, I told him that he celebrated Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa at the White House, but not Diwali. He looked at me and asked, “What is Diwali?” I was prepared. Anticipating the time crunch, I had brought a one-page written explanation. I handed it to him and said that if he celebrated Diwali, it would be appreciated by a billion Hindus around the world. He replied that he would look into it, and if he could make a billion people happy, he would do it.

That conversation took place on September 9, 2003. Just six weeks later, on October 23, 2003, Diwali was celebrated at the White House for the very first time.

To commemorate the occasion, I had silver coins minted in India featuring Ganesh and Laxmi. They were airlifted to Washington, D.C., and distributed to all the attendees at the White House event.

That was the beginning of Diwali’s official celebration in the Western world—and soon, other countries followed.

BK Sister Shivani

As the vibrant festivities of Navratri and Diwali unfold, they bring with them a profound message of spiritual awakening and self-realization. People observe fasting during Navratri as a vow to overcome vices like anger, criticism, and irritation. Consuming Sattvic food reminds us that everything we read, listen to, eat, and drink needs to be highly vibrational to purify the mind and body.

Jagran is the call to awaken to a righteous way of thinking and living. At its core, Navratri celebrates invoking the divine feminine, the ‘Ashta Bhuja Dhari’ Maa Shakti, the embodiment of 8 inner powers within each soul. Each power, when awakened, leads us towards self-realization.

• Parvati Devi: Power to Detach: Withdraw from dependencies, give unconditional love.
• Maa Durga: Power to let go: To release past hurts.
• Jagadamba: Power to tolerate: Nurture ourselves and others.
• Santoshi Maa: Power to Accept: Accept everyone and embrace contentment.
• Gayatri Devi: Power to Discern: Distinguish between right and wrong.
• Saraswati Maa: Power to Decide: Make accurate choices.
• Kali Maa: Power to Face: Confront and finish anything that is immoral.
• Lakshmi Maa: Power to Cooperate: Support and empower people selflessly.

Together, these 8 powers help us finish the inner ‘Ravan’ of 10 vices: lust, anger, greed, attachment, ego, jealousy, hatred, deceit, stubbornness, and laziness. This victory is celebrated as Dussehra, where ‘Dasa’ means ten and ‘Hara’ means to destroy.

Dussehra is soon followed by Diwali, the festival of light, traditionally honoring “Sri Ram’s return to his kingdom from exile. In fact, Sri Ram’s journey symbolizes our path from darkness to light, from ignorance to wisdom. It reminds us that by overcoming our vices, we restore our natural state of peace, love, and happiness. Diwali transcends mere festivities, with each ritual carrying a deeper meaning reflecting our journey back to our true, divine self.”

Cleaning the House: Just as we sweep away dust and cobwebs, we must clear out accumulated emotional stains of hurt, anger, resentment, or stress. This inner cleansing requires intentional mental reframing. For instance, replacing lingering thoughts like “Why did they wrong me?” with “It was their perspective, their mood. It was a Karmic account. It is over now.”

Wearing New Clothes: New attire and household items symbolize the renewal that follows cleansing. As we clean our mind to release old patterns, we learn new ways of thinking, speaking, and behaving. Old sanskars of anger, hurt, and criticism give way to understanding, compassion, respect, forgiveness, and acceptance.

Exchanging Gifts: The most meaningful gift we can offer each other is not material but spiritual—blessings and good wishes—as our constant offering, not just during the festival. Giving everyone a symbolic “Gift Card” that says, “From this moment onward, no matter what you say or do, I respond only with pure thoughts, pure feelings, and blessings.”

Savoring Sweets: Sweets are prepared with love and offered to God, allowing His blessings to infuse them with divine energy. These sweets remind us to “sweeten” our words as well. Let our mantra be: “I speak less, I speak softly, I speak sweetly. My words are filled with kindness and the sweetness of love.”

Lighting Diyas: “In Hindi, ‘Diya’ translates to ‘Dena’, meaning ‘to give’. Its clay form symbolizes our physical body, and the wick within it stands as a metaphor for the soul, patiently awaiting to be illuminated by the oil of wisdom:” “I am a soul. Love, peace, and happiness are my original qualities. I am a giver of these qualities to everyone.” Our hands, like those of Sri Lakshmi Ji, should always extend blessings. Sri Lakshmi embodies divinity and the true “Mann ka Lakshya,” the aim of life, which is to give endlessly.

New account books: Just as businessmen close old financial accounts and open new ledgers, we must do the same with our karmic accounts. It’s time to clear the debts of past hurt, unresolved conflicts, and any lingering negativity with others. No matter how deep-rooted these issues may be or how heavy they weigh upon us, we have the power to close those accounts and begin anew, filling our karmic ledger with acceptance, forgiveness, and love.

Bhaiya Dooj: Applying a Tilak reminds us to remain in constant awareness: “I am a pure soul, and so is everyone else.” When we maintain this soul-to-soul connection, our interactions transcend the barriers of roles, status, relationships, position, or age. Ego dissolves, expectations finish, and we let go of desires and dependencies.

This shift in consciousness becomes a powerful force, and through our collective awareness, we pave the way for a new, harmonious era—the Golden Age—where divinity, harmony, and prosperity for all are a natural way of being.

About the Author

Since 1996, BK Sister Shivani has been a practitioner and teacher of Rajyoga Meditation, which is at the heart of the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual Organization’s teachings. First telecast in 2007, her widely popular television show aimed at self-transformation, Awakening With Brahma Kumaris, For over a decade, the show has empowered individuals from all walks of life. Viewers have overcome mental stress, depression, addictions, low self-esteem, and unhappy relationships by taking personal responsibility for their emotions. The World Psychiatric Association has appointed her as a Goodwill Ambassador since 2017. The prestigious Nari Shakti Puraskar, the highest civilian honor for women in India, awarded BK Shivani in March 2019 for her role in transforming human behaviors.

But our friends at Occasions by Shangri-La came up with a unique way to celebrate Diwali and still follow CDC guidelines. The team at Occasions by Shangri-La has launched another venture, an amazing new furniture import store, located in Winter Garden, Florida called Element by Shangri La. They collaborated with the Orlando company, SubRosa DE and created a unique “Festival of Lights” dinner event at Element by Shangri La store.

It was filled with upbeat, modern Indian music from the live DJ (DJ Daggett), and beautiful vibrant décor (Occasions by Shangri-La). Each table was unique since they used inventory from Element to create seating pods for guests. As guests pulled up to the vibrantly lit store, they knew they had found the right location for this pop up dinner. Colorful illuminated arches caught the attention of not only the guests for the event, but many people stopped to see what was going on. As guests arrived, they were greeted by a hostess who then showed them to their table.

It created the perfect setting for families, a group of friends, or a romantic dinner. On each table was a preset colorful grouping of PaniPuri with vibrant spiced waters. This was just the beginning of a flavorful four course meal prepared by Chef Don Patel of the Spice Affair. While guests were enjoying the multiple courses, they were also surprised by a high energy Bollywood performance by Bollywood Touch. The venue, décor, music, entertainment, and food created a perfect place for everyone of all backgrounds to enjoy this beautiful, and fun celebration!

Now a few words about The SubRosa DE. It is a new and exciting immersive Secret pop up dinner experience. It is a concept that was created by two local hospitality professionals, Keena Patel and Andrea Vigil. Keena Patel comes from the hotel world, as a corporate catering manager for an exceptionally large hotel chain in Orlando. Andrea Vigil, owns a creative design agency, Sublime Event Designs, focusing on event planning and design for corporate conventions.

With the pandemic hitting the Orlando hospitality world hard, they decided to put their minds together and create what they love to do for the public! Thus, SubRosa Dining Experience was born! This concept not only brings people together to enjoy a delicious meal in a completely immersive environment but has also become a platform for supporting local Orlando businesses and partners.

Each dining experience features collaborations with local Orlando chefs, venues, entertainers, and businesses. SubRosa DE can create a pop-up dinner experience at your home or at your wedding.

Vendors

Venue
Element by Shangri-la
407-614-2977
www.elementimports.com

Event Coordinator
SubRosa Dining Experience
Andrea Vigil
Keena Patel
321-621-1640
Subrosaorlando@gmail.com
Instagram: @subrosade
Facebook: SubRosa Dining Experience

Food
The Spice Affair
Don Patel
630-479-6200
www.thespiceaffair.com

DJ Dagget
Adam Dagget
407-230-7863
daggettmeister@gmail.com

Dancers
Bollywood Touch
Monica Desai
407-433-0105
www.bollywoodtouch.com

COVID-19 pandemic

Festival of Lights

SubRosa DE

Indian music by DJ Daggett

Beautiful vibrant décor by Occasions by Shangri-La

Bollywood performance by Bollywood Touch
Sublime Event Designs

SubRosa Dining Experience

Sometimes our children are more interested in the holidays that their friends celebrate than the ones their parents celebrate. The challenge is to engage them but a little creativity goes a long way. Diwali was always “the festival of lights,” and that was the extent of my knowledge. Then Diwali became more tangible when, one year, my dad brought home clay and we all gathered around to make our own clay diyas. For us, that was the year that Diwali came alive. It was a fun activity and little did we know, but there was a hidden agenda. While we were having fun, my parents took the opportunity to sneak in stories of Diwali. Over the years, this has become a family tradition.

Here are some more ideas. Use colored powder or colored rice to create beautiful rangoli designs. Another popular festival is Navaratri and the best part is the Dandiya Raas. But instead of buying dandiyas, why not make them?

Interested in these simple DIY crafts? For the diya, you can purchase the clay and paint from Michaels or AC Moore. The rangoli powder can be purchased at Indian stores. Or, you can use your children’s paint to make colored rice. You can also make paper stencils for the rangoli designs giving you extra time together. The dandiya can be made using ¾” round dowel from Home Depot. The ribbon to decorate dandiyas can be purchased at Joanne’s Fabric or Walmart.

Fun group activities create an avenue for communication. If you have grandparents, aunts, and uncles nearby, invite them over to celebrate with you! The more, the merrier!

About the Author

Chahna Tailor is a certified yoga instructor with backgrounds in occupational therapy and health science. Occupational therapy opened up the doors of knowledge when it came to taking care of the Self first and leading a healthier life. This led her to the physical practice of yoga. Chahna deepened her practice by training in Rishikesh, India, where she studied the science behind yoga, the breath, and meditation. Chahna also practices personal training, Reiki, hypnotherapy, aromatherapy, pranichealing, and sound healing.

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Dandiya Raas

popular festival is Navaratri

rangoli powder

Indian stores

rangoli designs

Joanne’s Fabric or Walmart

Chahna Tailor

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health science

physical practice of yoga

science behind yoga

meditation

sound healing

hypnotherapy

aromatherapy

pranichealing

Rishikesh, India

Holidays tend to bring about very rich memories for us, usually centering around the excitement of traveling and family members visiting. Every year it’s a new blur of vivid colors, bright lights, and delicious aromas. Oh the aromas!! It’s almost like every holiday has its own special scents. But the foods and drinks we indulge in don’t have to be so calorically dense, nor do they have to add to our “holiday weight.”

A useful trick is to keep a mild level awareness throughout the holidays about the foods you pick up to eat. Don’t be afraid to question what it is you’re ingesting! Think, is there a better alternative to what I’m about to put into my body? We do not have to give up sweets completely, but there are tasty variations that we may even grow to love more because they don’t make us feel as groggy or bloated.

In trying to avoid buying a size up in my jeans and staying clear of acne breakouts (right before Navarati season, yikes!), I found alternatives to unhealthy holiday foods [inspired by GrowFit, TruWeigh & BoldSky blogs]. Here are some of the highlights to guide you.

On Diwali and other holiday times, when you find yourself sitting idle and relaxing, stay clear of sweets high in saturated fats. Avoid the heavy samosas and go for chickpea dhokla instead. Leave the fried, caloric rich, fattening vada and stick to steamed idli sambar. Idli also has more protein than aloo puri. Instead of white rice, try your biryani with cauliflower rice. Watch for those glycemic indexes as well, especially if diabetic. Even ketchup, which has more sugar, can be substituted with mint chutney! Feeling a sweets craving? My mom makes amazing fruit salad with a little milk; it’s healthier than the ladoos. I’m guilty – I love my poha with potatoes and sev; instead try grated coconut (a healthy fat), peas, & some lemon juice.

Still craving ladoo? Try making whey protein ladoo! Take poha, banana, oat powder, almonds, milk, and your favorite protein powder and combine them well. Make the ladoo balls then coat with a creamy mix of your protein powder & milk. Set it to cool and you’ll have protein bites for Diwali.

Craving chaat? Neha Ghosh from Bold Sky introduces Spicy Corn Chaat, which is packed with antioxidants and fiber. She mentions the capsaicin in red chili powder, which aids in fat loss.

Longing for savory snacks? Paneer is one of my favorite things. Try roasting a paneer kabob with flax seed and cinnamon (or get creative)! Ghosh includes cinnamon in her recipe since it is also helps manage cravings and weight. Flax seeds contain omega-3’s which we need to support critical functions in our bodies.

Think outside the box when it comes to food, especially during the holiday season. Stay aware, stay active, and embrace the holiday aromas in a health conscious way.

About the Author Nisha Jani earned a Master’s in Exercise Physiology and Sports Medicine from the University of Miami, where she also studied Psychology and Kinesiology. She uses her expertise in exercise & physiology to fuel her lifelong passions of dance, fitness, and teaching. She is passionate about bringing to the community an awareness about the benefits of preventative medicine in the form of exercise and diet, favoring a holistic approach to well-being. After working in cardiology, Nisha is now a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist, applying scientific principles towards improving athletic performance, injury prevention, and nutritional guidance.

Posted on: 09-29-2018 by: Deshvidesh

Happy Diwali! Diwali is one of the most auspicious celebrations for Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Newar Buddhists, and has many different meanings to people in addition to celebrating the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. From an accounting standpoint, many also take time to reflect, give thanks to their clients/customers/partners, give donations to various charities, and may even close their business accounting books.

I’m a big proponent of donating to charities and helping your community. However, it is important to note that the tax implications are a little different for 2018. Please donate freely and generously, but do know that you may not get the tax benefit you are expecting. For 2018, the Tax Cut and Jobs Act has increased the limit of charitable deduction to 60% of your adjusted gross income BUT this only goes into effect if you itemize on your personal tax return. How do you itemize? Itemization takes place on your Schedule A of your Form 1040 personal tax return. Itemizing consists of charitable deductions, property tax, mortgage interest, and medical expenses to name a few. For the deductions to apply, the total deduction of Schedule A should be more than the standard deduction. The standard deduction for 2018 is $12,000 if you’re single or $24,000 if you’re married and filing jointly.

Dhanteras, the first day of Diwali, is a day dedicated to celebrate the Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth. Many people have pujas praying for prosperity, health and well-being of their loved ones, buy something extra special, or mark it as a beginning of a new business venture. As the majority of businesses in the United States have a December 31st year end, it is still a valuable time to take a close look at your accounting records. Are you on track with your revenues? Have expenses been appropriate for your business? Is your accounting up to date? Have you considered how the new tax laws will affect your business? This is a great time to still make a few changes in your business before the end of the calendar year. If you wish your year had gone better, consider what you could do differently. If you had a great year, take the time to recognize what you did right so that you can continue to have success.

Although there are many financial aspects to consider during this time, Diwali is a time to celebrate with your family and friends and be thankful for all that you have.

Wishing you, your family and your businesses a very happy Diwali and prosperous New Year!

About the Author

Nirali Chokshi is a CPA working at her family’s accounting firm Chokshi Accounting & Tax Services in Orlando, FL. She graduated with her Masters from University of Central Florida in 2009.

Review by Faren Rajkumar
Creative Writing MFA candidate, University of South Florida

A joy to read and share, and makes a perfect Diwali present for young ones! This colorful story is a simply charming learning experience for children unfamiliar with the traditions of Diwali, and also a valuable way to help celebrate the old traditions with a new generation of Hindu children. It’s rare to find a well-done children’s book featuring authentically ethnic characters, and this one delivers. Sharing this book with minority children is an important way to empower remind them that they have a place on bookshelves, in the classroom, and in the imagination of writers and artists.

Highly recommend as a gift for children during the Diwali holiday, and for teachers as a classroom learning tool.

We Love Diwali published by Desh-Videsh Publishing
(www.deshvideshpublishing.com)
Price:    $10.00

Come the months of October – November, there is an air of festivity all around. It is the auspicious festival of Diwali that makes even the grimmest face smile in anticipation. It is indeed the time for all to usher into the light, to overcome all that is evil, and to celebrate the supreme festival of the Hindus all over the world! Held on the fourteenth day of the waning phase of the moon in the month of Kartik, the night of Diwali is the darkest night of the darkest period of the year, and yet it is the celebration of light. According to Hindu scripture, Diwali marks the homecoming of the illustrious King Rama, who returned after defeating the evil Ravana in a battle that lasted for 14 years.

In celebration, cities and far-flung boundaries of Ayodhya where Ram lived, were lit up with rows of lamps glittering on dark nights to welcome home the divine king. However, at a metaphysical level, Diwali is a festival signifying the victory of good over evil, where evil is destroyed and reduced to ashes by fireworks is the belief of the people. It symbolizes the aspiration of all Hindus to vanquish the ignorance that subdues humanity and to drive away the darkness that engulfs the light of knowledge. Diwali personifies moving from darkness to light. It is a holy tradition, on that symbolizes the victory of good over bad.

As stated in Brhadaranyaka Upanishad,

Asato Ma Sad Gamaya (Lead us from untruth to truth)
Tamaso Ma Jyotir Gamaya (Lead me from darkness to light)
Mrityor Ma Amritam Gamaya (Lead me from death to immortality)
Om Shanti Shanti Shanti (Om Peace, Peace, Peace)

Also Buddha said: Appo Deepo Bhav. Be a light unto yourself. Epitomizing the triumph of good over evil, righteousness over treachery, truth over falsehood, and of light over darkness, Diwali is just not a festival; it is an integral part of our being, of our lifecycle and our very existence in this beautiful world. It is the message of Upanishads, sages, and all enlightened Beings.

Celebrated joyously all over India and also abroad by NRIs, it is also the festival of wealth and prosperity. Diwali is a festival where people from all age groups participate. They give expression to their happiness by lighting earthen ‘diyas’ (lamps), decorating houses, bursting firecrackers, and inviting near and dear ones to their households to partake in a sumptuous feast. The lighting of lamps is a way of paying respect to God for the attainment of health, wealth, knowledge, peace, valor, and fame.

Now, when we look into present day scenarios, we find a significant change in the perception of Diwali, especially among younger generations. For the millennials, the occasion is to indulge in material pleasures and ‘enjoy’ the time. And no doubt, this is a gross fault of their parents in this matter – as they also fail to educate the true meaning and significance of Diwali to their kids. As such, the festival has become more an event to burn firecrackers, buy gifts, indulge in food and drinks rather than realize and practice the inner essence of the festival.

Along with changing times, the methods of celebrating Diwali have also witnessed new twists and turns. The contemporary era has commercialized the entire event. It is not that commercialization has affected the spirit of cheerfulness in any sense. Rather, it has helped Diwali earn global recognition. Earlier, any event was ritualized in a modest manner. But, as India joined the global bandwagon and became exposed to new cultures and traditions, the methods of celebrations too were extended.

Amidst the frenzy involving Diwali, it should not be forgotten that the festival is not only about celebrations such as lightings, firecrackers, cleanliness, colorful rangoli making, social gatherings to exchange greetings and sharing sweets with your loved ones, but it is also a festival that is filled with spiritualism and religious activities such as worship of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, Mother Kali, Lord Chitragupta, and Govardhan Parvat.

It is important to understand the significance of the festival and believe in the same. For example, we all know that lighting lamps is a mandatory custom on the Diwali. Now, what is the significance of lighting a lamp? These lamps are meant as symbols, as a means to an end. But, what is this end? What is the real darkness, which must be dispelled? It is the darkness within us, the darkness of ignorance, selfishness, and duality that has to be eliminated. Indian culture says that we are all one. Indian culture says that as our brothers and sisters suffer in darkness, so we too are suffering, although we may not be aware of it. It is, therefore, our divine duty to help dispel the darkness in their lives and to help alleviate their suffering.

The lighting of the lamp has other significance also. It is through light that the beauty of this world is revealed or experienced. Most civilizations of the world recognize the importance of light as a gift of God. It has always been a symbol of whatever is positive in our world of experience. To Hindus, darkness represents ignorance, and light is a metaphor for knowledge. Therefore, lighting a lamp symbolizes the destruction, through knowledge, of all negative forces – wickedness, violence, lust, anger, envy, greed, bigotry, fear, injustice, oppression and suffering, etc.

It is thus ironic that though Diwali is popularly known as the “festival of lights,” the most significant spiritual meaning is “the awareness of the inner light.” Central to Hindu philosophy is the assertion that there is something beyond the physical body and mind which is pure, infinite, and eternal, called the Atman (Spirit). Just as we celebrate the birth of our physical being, Diwali is the celebration of this Inner Light, in particular the knowing of which outshines all darkness, awakening the individual to one’s true nature, not as the body, but as the unchanging, infinite, immanent and transcendent reality. With the realization of the Atman comes universal compassion, love, and the awareness of the oneness of all things (higher knowledge). This brings Ananda (Inner Joy or Peace).

Diwali celebrates this through festival fireworks, lights, flowers, sharing of sweets, and worship. While the story behind Diwali varies from region to region, the essence is the same – to rejoice in the Inner Light (Atman) or the underlying reality of all things (Brahman).

It can be said that there might be a paradigm shift in the interpretation of the festival of Diwali, and today, we find commercialization and limitless enthusiasm engulf the occasion. What remains the same however, is that this day is a celebration of life, joy, and goodness. From darkness we enter into light, and light empowers us to do good deeds and bring us closer to divinity. Let us try to believe in this perception and share this with all concerned – work towards a better life and a better society, where the dominance of good over evil would be permanent and irrevocable.

For an oil lamp to burn, the wick has to be partially immersed in the oil. If the wick is completely drowned in oil, it cannot bring light. Life is like the wick of the lamp, you have to be in the world and yet remain untouched by it. If you are drowned in the materialism of the world, you cannot bring joy and knowledge in your life. By being in the world, yet not drowning in the worldly aspect of it, we can be the light of joy and knowledge.

By Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

Diwali is the day we harvest the results of our hard work blessed with the wealth by Mother Lakshmi.

We pray to her with gratitude and ask the gracious Mother to:

Shower Her blessings in abundance for the coming year
Give us the intelligence to use our wealth in the right manner
Give us the heart to share it generously with our fellow beings
For this sharing, Lamps of Love are lit…
Fill the Heart with the oil of Love.
Place in it the wick of single-pointed mind.
Light it with the Knowledge of Truth and remove the darkness of Ignorance around you.
Just as one lamp can light many lamps; let each youth kindle this Light in many hearts.

Swami Swaroopananda
Chinmaya Mission

The Yajurveda says, “Tanme Manaha Shivasankalpam astu” — let noble intentions flow from this mind of ours. This Diwali, celebrate with knowledge and take an intention to serve humanity. Light the lamp of love in your heart; the lamp of abundance in your home; the lamp of compassion to serve others; the lamp of Knowledge to dispel the darkness of ignorance; and the lamp of gratitude for the abundance that the Divine has bestowed on us.

By Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

Indians celebrate Diwali with great fervour. Diwali has significance in many aspects of our life. It symbolises triumph of: light over darkness, virtue over vice, knowledge over ignorance, justice over injustice, compassion over cruelty, and such dualities in life. According to Hindu Heritage, one cannot exist without the other. For instance, we cannot have pleasure without pain, success without failure, attachment without aversion, love without hatred, and so on. Diwali is an occasion to celebrate the positive aspects and to endure the negative and unpleasant.

Padma Bhushan N.S. Ramaswamy
Former Director, Indian Institute of
Management Bangalore, Bangalore

The inner significance of Diwali is that it is a joyful celebration of the victory of good over evil, of our spiritual qualities dominating our basic instincts, intellect and ego. Light is a universal symbol of spirituality. Thus bringing more light into our homes and therefore our lives symbolizes each of us becoming a more spiritual person.

Hinduism Today’s publisher
Satguru Bodhinatha Veylanswami

Whatever Path you choose to walk, let me be the light that will light your way. Wayfarer that you are, you must fare well upon the way in Love and Joy – to be kneaded to become fit for the Divine. May this Deepavali light up your life Within and Without. Love and Light

Jaggi Vasudev, commonly known as Sadhguru

Posted on: 09-28-2018 by: Deshvidesh