During the Festival of Lights in India, you can see rows (avali) of lit clay lamps (deepa) people have placed outside their homes to represent the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness.
This festival, also called Diwali or Dipawali, is considered the most significant festival in India. Many compare it to Christmas for Christians. Read on to learn more on what Diwali is about and how to celebrate Diwali respectfully.
What is Diwali about?
How to celebrate Diwali without culturally appropriating
As you can tell, Diwali is a very family-centric holiday and you might want to celebrate with yours as well, despite not being South Asian. Here’s how you can celebrate without culturally appropriating:
1. Gather with loved ones, maybe virtually. A big part of Diwali is meeting up with relatives with gifts and celebrating the new year over food, music, and prayer. If it’s not possible to meet with relatives due to COVID-19, consider a virtual Zoom gathering to play games and wish good fortune upon each other.
2. Learn more about the different cultures in India. Take this opportunity to learn more about not only Diwali itself but the history of many cultures in India, from the Jains to the Sikhs. It’s also a time to learn about the history of India itself, from the Indus Valley civilization to colonization to being a parliamentary democratic republic.
3. Plant something to celebrate new beginnings. For the Washington Post, Makhijani writes about having her daughter plant something in the backyard to mark the start of the new Hindu year. Try something similar with your little ones, even if it’s just a small herb plant.
4. Support a local Indian business. Sample a Diwali sweet treat like jalebi, or order dinner from a local Indian restaurant. It’s important to support local businesses as well as give back to the community whose holiday you’re appreciating and celebrating.
