Not sure what Diwali is all about? We break it down for you here, as well as correct some common misconceptions
This story was originally published on November 3, 2021, and updated on October 13, 2022.
Diwali, one of Singapore’s major cultural festivals, falls very soon on October 24 and it is a very special day when Hindus all over the island will celebrate the triumph of good over evil with food, gatherings, prayers and more.
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This year, Diwali is back in full force after Covid-19 restrictions and cases forced celebrations to be more muted for the past few years. Now, Singaporeans can freely visit their family members, engage in Diwali-themed activities and more.
While not every one of us will be celebrating Diwali, it is certainly important to learn what it’s all about as well as to correct any misconceptions you might have. In fact, keep reading to find out everything you need to know about it.
1. It Is a Celebration of Good Overcoming Evil
Diwali is a religious festival that marks the triumph of good over evil and of light over darkness.
It is a time when Hindus around the country decorate their homes with lights and candles, exchange gifts, visit their families for meals and perform pooja, or prayers, to deities such as Lakshmi, the goddess of fertility and prosperity.
Typically, Hindus will spend days leading up to Diwali cleaning and decorating their homes with oil lamps as well as creating rangolis which are traditional decorations that are usually made with ground rice powder or rice grains and are placed at the entrance of homes. These decorations are usually elaborate and feature geometrical patterns, different colours and sweeping patterns.
This is typically done to welcome the goddess of wealth and good luck, Lakshmi, into the home.
