It’s known as the Festival of Lights, but this year has marked a darker Diwali than most due to violence in the Indian state of Punjab.
Chain Bath, president of the India Cultural Centre of Canada on No. 5 Road, said his group would not be setting off the usual Diwali fireworks after unknown perpetrators desecrated a Sikh holy book in Punjab, last month. As such, celebrations have been toned down, according to Bath.
However, at the Richmond Cultural Centre on Sunday, the City of Richmond helped sponsor its third annual community Diwali event, co-hosted by resident Suresh Kurl.
“I started this to welcome the entire community,” said Kurl, who invited people of all faiths, as well as atheists and non-practicing believers of a god, to mark the day together.
Kurl said during Diwali — a five-day celebration marked by the year’s darkest new moon night — Hindus often worship Ganesha, the god of wisdom, as well as Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
Diwali is said to celebrate triumph of good over evil and is marked by gatherings with dancing and songs. Sikhs have similar celebrations, as well, to coincide with Diwali.
Kurl invited Seaquam secondary student Devika Vishwanath, of Delta, to perform a ceremonial dance for the 50 or so people in attendance at the centre. Honoured guest MP Joe Peschisolido lit a traditional candle to represent Christians. Five other people, representing different faiths, also lit candles.
Another big part of Diwali is the sharing of sweet treats. At Himalaya Restaurant on No. 5 Road, manager Sarb Pabla estimates he’s sold hundreds of thousands of sweets this week — at least 30 times more than a typical week at the buffet-style restaurant.
