The 21st of October has just passed, which was Diwali, and my native country, India, is currently in a period of celebration. It’s the biggest time of the year when people meet relatives and friends to celebrate their culture and identity through food, music, dance, and worship.
As an international student, I used to see these occasions as mere dates, not festivals. This is the first time I’ve truly realized my Indianness—my roots, my sense of belonging—and why it’s so important to celebrate our festivals and culture. I’ve come to understand that festivals are a vital way to maintain our identity and individuality. As without a festival there is no culture and without culture there is no identity…
For a boy in India who takes his festivals for granted or doesn’t realize their value until it’s too late, being far from home - in a city like Newcastle - can be a wake-up call. For Indians and Hindus around the world, this is the biggest time of the year, from October 2nd to October 21st, known as the phase between Dussehra and Diwali, two of our most significant festivals. Everything feels joyful and vibrant. The markets are lit up, and you meet friends, relatives, and loved ones. You bond over stories, dance, food, music, and gifts. The holiday season begins, and people from all walks of life return home to celebrate these festivals with their families. People decorate their houses. These are truly fun times.
"You bond over stories, dance, food, music, and gifts."
For me, these festivals are more than just celebrations; they are a source of teachings. As a child, I was curious and asked many questions, especially to my grandmother (whom we call Dadi in India). My Dadi was a great storyteller. She used to share stories related to festivals, emphasizing that, in the end, goodness always triumphs. No matter how powerful evil may seem, it will ultimately lose to good. These lessons come to mind every time the festival season arrives. But here in Newcastle, I miss those vibes and that atmosphere.
The Hindu Temple