Dear Reader,
Although Deepavali (also known as Diwali) is known as an important Hindu holiday, it is observed by more than a billion people across the Jain, Sikh, and Buddhist faiths.
Deepavali is a five-day festival of lights, prayer, feasts, fireworks and, for some, a new year which celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. Deepavali is best known as a festival of lights: The word “Deepavali” is derived from the Sanskrit dipavali, which means “row of lights,” and hence the little clay lamps lit outside the homes of celebrants.
This deeply mystical festival has no single origin story, but such as there are, they represent the victory of good over evil. These are epic tales of victory won by incarnations of the Hindu god Vishnu, the sustainer of the universe, and whose role it is to restore the balance of good and evil. For instance, in South India, Deepavali celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon king Narakasura, who had imprisoned 16,000 women in his palace, and inflicted harsh punishments upon rebellious subjects.
Abundance is celebrated in feasting, family gatherings, and the lighting of clay lamps that symbolize the inner light that protects you from spiritual darkness. Each of the five days of Deepavali has its own significance. On day one, people pray to the goddess Lakshmi, bake sweets, and clean their homes; On the second day, they decorate their homes with lamps and rangolis, designs made on the floor out of colored sand, powder, rice or flower petals. The third day is its most important: People go to temple to honor Lakshmi, gather with friends and family for feasts and fireworks, setting ablaze the clay lamps. The fourth day of Deepavali marks the new year and a time to exchange gifts and well wishes. Finally, the fifth day is typically a day to honour one’s siblings.
However you too can celebrate Deepavali in its spirit — the belief that, eventually, light will triumph over darkness. Spruce up your homes and give your outfit a makeover with cheerful new accessories. ABARA handbags are always a good way to let the new triumph over the old and faded: Choose from festively coloured leathers that are like blazing jewels to brighten up all your days and nights!
On this occasion of light, ABARA wishes one and all brightness, sparkles and blazes of good fortune to illuminate every day of your life.
