Theresa Villiers MP has wished her Sikh, Hindu and Jain constituents a Happy Diwali as the celebration begins on Thursday 19th October.
Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, and is marked by lighting candles and letting off fireworks. It continues for five days, this year running between Thursday 19th and Monday 23rd October. It is also known as “Deepavali”, from the Sanskrit meaning “row of lighted lamps”, lighting the way home. The day has multiple meanings for different communities. Concurrently with Diwali, Sikhs also celebrate Bandi Chorh Diwas: a historical event commemorating the day when Sikh Guru Hargobind Sahib was released from Gwalior Prison in the 17th century.
Diwali is widely celebrated across London: crowds of up to 350,000 gathered in Trafalgar Square on the 15th October. Over recent days Theresa Villiers attended the Downing Street Diwali reception and the 16th annual Parliamentary Diwali celebration, hosted by the Hindu Forum Britain. She also plans to visit the Shree Jalaram Mandir in Greenford to take part in their Diwali events.
Theresa Villiers said: “The values of Diwali can have a meaning for all of us, whatever our faith or cultural background. As well as celebrating the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, the theme of homecoming is central to this important festival. Today, many people will be travelling in order to gather together for family celebrations. I wish them a safe journey and a very happy and peaceful Diwali.”
“I have been taking part in Diwali celebrations for many years. I always feel honoured to be involved in these very special events, alongside many friends and constituents.”
“This is also a great time of the year to recognise the hugely valuable role played by the British Indian community in the UK. They are an outstanding success story and play an important part in our economy, our civic life, and our public services.”