Hey there, fellow light-seekers and joy-spreaders! It’s that time of the year again when our hearts dance to the rhythm of twinkling lights, and our souls are warmed by the glow of beautiful lamps. Yes, you guessed it right – it’s Diwali! This festival of lights is not just a celebration, it’s a beautiful tapestry of traditions, togetherness, and triumphs. So, gather round as we embark on a journey through the enchanting world of Diwali celebrations!

The Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is an ancient multi-faith festival celebrated across India and many other countries around the world. It usually falls in October or November, marking the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. This year Diwali falls on Sunday 12th November. During Diwali, the atmosphere is imbued with an aura of positivity and optimism.

The Triumph of Good Over Evil

So, why do many faiths celebrate Diwali? Well, at the heart of Diwali lies the legendary tale of Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king, Ravana. His return symbolised the victory of righteousness over tyranny, and is now celebrated with great warmth and devotion. In many parts of India, communities come together to enact the Ramayana, the epic that narrates Lord Rama’s heroic journey. This reenactment is not only a visual spectacle but also a reminder of the timeless values of courage, sacrifice, and righteousness. How amazing!

Preparations and Decorations

As Diwali approaches, homes, streets, and markets around the world, come alive with vibrant colours and glittering decorations. The air is filled with the delicate fragrance of incense, the wonderful sound of laughter, and a sense of togetherness. Families carefully clean their homes and many adorn them with colourful Rangoli designs. However, arguably one of the most enchanting aspects of Diwali is the array of beautifully crafted lamps and lanterns that adorn windows, and balconies. These radiant beacons not only light up the night but symbolise the inner light that dispels darkness from our lives. On the day of Diwali, families and communities come together to watch the night sky come alive with a kaleidoscope of colours and the crackling sounds of fireworks.

Sweets and Savouries Galore

Another part of the Diwali tradition is savouring the delicious assortment of food! From mouthwatering sweet treats such as gulab jamuns, golden jalebis, and the fragrant, nutty barfis, the options are endless. Families traditionally exchange these delightful treats, spreading sweetness and love. Remember, if you are looking for sweet treats, there are always plenty at Hatty’s Sweet Shop.

But Diwali isn’t just about satisfying our sweet tooth. It’s also about tasting an array of savory snacks like samosas, pakoras, and chivda, which add a contrast to the sweetness of the occasion. The kitchen often becomes a bustling hub of culinary creativity, with recipes being passed down through generations.

Sharing Love and Gifts

Diwali is a time for spreading love and warmth. Families and friends exchange gifts as tokens of affection, ranging from traditional clothes and jewellery to gadgets and books. It’s not about the material value, but the sentiment behind the gesture that truly matters. Beyond material gifts, Diwali is also about giving back to the community. Many individuals and organisations take this opportunity to engage in acts of charity, helping those in need and making a positive impact on society.

Diwali isn’t just a festival; it’s a symphony of love, light, and life. It’s a time when families come together, and celebrate the beauty of existence itself. Here’s to the hope that the light of Diwali continues to illuminate our lives throughout the year!

Here at Quest, we wish you all a Diwali filled with boundless joy, laughter, and endless blessings!

Team Quest

We’ve Got You Covered

Below we’ve selected a number of fabulous items which would make perfect Diwali gifts. Also, if you are local to Epsom, please pop along and check out our shop window, which is adorned with a delightful selection of Diwali goodies.

Upcoming Courses and Workshops

We have listed below upcoming courses with Home of Reiki, as well as some fantastic downloadable courses and meditations by our very own Carolina aka The Soul Coach.