What is the history of Diwali?
The festival celebrates the triumph of good over evil when Lord Rama won victory over Ravan and the twinkling lights symbolize the rows of light that were lit along the streets upon Ramas return to his home city of Ayodhya. For the full story of one legend of Diwali click here. The festival is the symbol of a new beginning and of exorcising the darkness of evil from peoples lives. After the Hindu ceremonial part of the day is finished, people visit their relatives and friends to share sweets and small cakes. Our daughter is always really sad to miss out on the cakes if she is not in Mauritius for Divali, particularly her aunty Shyamas barphi!! There is a tradition of fireworks on Diwali and most towns and villages have official celebrations.
