Indian Festivals

Deepavali

Deepavali ( also known as Diwali), or Festival Of Lights celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. This festival which is also the Hindu new year usually falls in October or November. Countless flickering oil lamps and lights are lit in houses all over the country making it a night of enchantment. A special light up including garlands and colourful arches are used to mark the occasion at Little India. One of the many stories which explain why Deepavali is celebrated describes how Lord Krishna, a Hindu deity , defeated a demon and freed the people from suffering. Hindus light oil lamps to represent the victory of light over darkness. Decorative designs made with coloured rice flour, called Kolam are drawn on the floor in front of the house to welcome guests during Deepavali. Another reason why they are drawn with rice flour is so that food can be shared with the lower animals such as insects and birds on this special day. Most Hindus get up before dawn to take an oil bath. This symbolises the cleansing of the body of all evil thoughts and deeds and the making of a fresh start. Gingelly oil is oil extracted from sesame seeds and an oil bath is also regarded as cooling. When the sun begins to set, Hindus prepare to light oil lamps at home. The traditional oil lamp is a small clay bowl with a wick and oil These days, the use of electric bulbs, candles and even tea-lights is becoming common.

Thaipusam

Thaipusam is observed in the Tamil month of Thai, which falls between January and February. It is the feast of the Hindu god Subramaniam, son of Shiva, and celebrates his triumph over the forces of evil. Subramaniam symbolises bravery, youth, beauty and virtue and is also the universal dispenser of favours. All those who wish to fulfil a vow in return for a granted favour or to repent past sins, perform various feats of mind over pain.

Extraordinary Indian's Thaipusam.

The Indian gathered with orange-clothed.

The Chinese also take part in Indian Festival - they believe that will bring luck to them.