The inner light

Text and Pix by:- Dushiyanthini Kanagasabapathipillai

 

Beautiful fresh flower garlands made for the festival

“Deepavali” is a celebration and joy and wisdom, and will be celebrated on 13^th of November 2012 around the world, with great pomp and enthusiasm. “Deepavali” is popularly known as the “Festival of Lights”. It is celebrated with sweets, savouries, firecrackers, greetings, gifts and lights. The annual festival is usually celebrated in late October or early November according to the new moon, has been  predominantly celebrated by the Hindus since the time immemorial.

“Legend has it that, Lord Vishnu defeated the demon King “Narakaasuran”, and killed him on this day. The day came to be known as “Deepavali”. Significant for the celebration of the victory of good over evil; overcoming spiritual darkness; and the renewal of life. The most spiritual meaning for the festival is “awareness of the inner light”.  The sparkle of “Deepavali” lifts inner spirit” says Sitsabesa Kurukkal, the Chief Priest of Sammaankodu Sri Kathirvelauthaswamy temple, also known as the Maanikka Pillaiyaar temple in Bambalapitty.

Newly married couples celebrate “Thalai Deepavali” (the first “Deepavali” festival celebrated as husband and wife), with special gifts and sweets from their relatives. Hindus wear new clothes, throng temples, serve sweets and savouries, exchange gifts, and visit friends and relatives on the “Deepavali” festival day, and wish each other “Let the Lights Shine forever”.

Ghee lamps are lit

Traditional Hindu welcome

Lines of lights to decorate the temple tower

Lord Ganesh is dressed up for the festival

Temple is packed with devotees

Devotees worship in Bambalapitty

A male devotee carrying a tray of items used for religious rituals

Variety of sweets and savouires served on the festival day

Garland maker is seen busy meeting the demand during the festival

An array of firecrackers

Pigeons peck rice in a temple compound

COURTESY: CEYLON TODAY