Diwali Greetings By Mrs. Bindu Gupta
As the holy occasion of Diwali is here and the atmosphere is filled with the spirit of mirth and love, here’s hoping this festival of beauty brings your way bright sparkles of contentment, that stay with you through the days ahead. Here is hoping that each member of the family is blessed with abundance of love and success in their endeavors on this Diwali.
Diwali is a time for celebration, but it is also a time for reflection – a time when we must remember that there are always others less fortunate than ourselves. This holiday reminds us all that we should commit ourselves to helping those in need.
If we look more closely at the symbolism behind each Diwali tale, there are many profound messages that convey how to live life consciously that are much deeper than our basic understanding of ‘good over evil’. The legend of the ‘yudhha’ between Lord Ram and Ravan represents the challenges that we are grappling with in our battlefield of life.
Ram and Ravan both exist within us. When we see the world through the filter of judgement, it ignites fear and greed in us, taking us away from our sense of peace and attaching us to a materialistic desire. At the same time, there is another part of us representing the idealistic character that is aware of this drama, knows that we have deviated from our path due to judgement; and understands that we need to shine our light over these judgements. These tales are really making us aware of a universal truth that duality exists in our world (meaning we will be faced with opposing elements), and hence there will always be dark and light. Overcoming it by shining our inner light bright is something that the festival tries to teach us.
While these celebrations are ongoing, I request you to be mindful of those that do not have the opportunity to be with their families. You might be one of them, if you are, I salute you. You are the strength with which not only your families get a better life but also on which organizations such as ours are built. I am humbled by your sacrifice and thankful for your contribution. My wish for us, this Diwali, is that we continue to love ourselves and keep moving from judgement to acceptance.
At present, the mantra of ‘Vocal For Local’ reverberates everywhere. I you all to promote local for Diwali. This little step of saying NO to Chinese products will not only strengthen local identity and give the economy a new life, it will also illuminate Diwali of craftsmen and artisans who make these products.
May the festival of lights be the harbinger of joy and prosperity. A very Happy Deepawali to you and your loved ones!
Mrs. Bindu Gupta
( RPS International School)
Former Principal
