The festival of lights as it is called, commemorates the the belief of light over darkness. The festival historically celebrates the return of Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. It is celebrated widely in all states of India and Diwali literally lights up the country with candles, clay lamps, electric bulbs and fireworks. Rich or poor, young or aged the festival is celebrated by all.
If you have moved to US recently, you might be wondering if people here really celebrate Diwali. Get-togethers and pot-lucks at a friend's place is quite common here on cultural festivals. People embellish their houses with candles and diyas(clay lamps). Fire-works are an inherent part of this festival.Though you will find fire-crackers being sold in the Indian groceries, you will have to think twice before buying them. You may hear your neighbor coming out and asking "where is all this smoke coming from"? Probably they were about to dial 911 before the fuljharis were extinguished.
So risk-alert guys!!
Houston celebrates and embraces Indian culture and ethnicity too. Kali Pujo and Diwali celebrations took place in Houston Durga Bari on 6th and 7th November. Diwali in Durga Bari included Puja-paath, Prasad-bitoron(edible-offerings), fireworks too. Rains on Diwali nearly spoiled the mood. But I would say celebrating Diwali in a foreign land has a charm on it's own. Rains never bothered us and even though we were repeatedly told to end fireworks for 2015, we still continued anyway. Quite a fun Diwali that was.
I wanted to celebrate Diwali on the actual day in my own way. Thought of sharing some pictures too..
Labels: Diwali, Diwali abroad, Houston Durga bari, Houstonlife, photography
