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by Kimberly Khanna

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by Kimberly Khanna

 

While Diwali typically falls in late October or early November, this year brought a unique convergence as the Hindu holiday coincided with Halloween, playfully dubbed "Diwaloween" by those marking both occasions. As Halloween decorations dotted American neighborhoods, another celebration illuminated homes across the country. The overlap seemed fitting; while one holiday embraces darkness, the other champions light.

 

Derived from the Sanskrit "dipavali" meaning "row of lights," Diwali commemorates an ancient homecoming: the return of Lord Ram, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshman to Ayodhya (in ancient India) after fourteen years in exile. Their story, immortalized in the epic Ramayana, mirrors the festival's deeper meaning – the triumph of light over darkness. In my family, this celebration of hope unfolds through time-honored rituals.

 

We light fireworks (sparklers for the younger kids), gather for a huge meal, and play cards into the late hours. We exchange gifts and that strengthens our bonds, much like Christmas does for many American families. Each lit diya (clay lamp) and shared sweet marks not just tradition but renewal – a moment when we, along with other Indian families worldwide, pause to embrace the true meaning of Diwali: the triumph of good over evil and knowledge over ignorance.