The festival of lights is an opportune time to spend with family and friends over sweets and gifts.

This is a message Gujarati Youth Association president Krisha Kantharia hopes to share to the people of Fiji.

Gujarati Youth Association is a non-profit organisation consisting of Gujarati Youth.

It was established in 2018 with a goal to promote the Guajarati culture amongst the people of Fiji.

She said the word Diwali or Deepawali ‘rows of lights’ in Sanskrit.

“Diwali honors the Hindu goddess of wealth ‘Laksmi’ The lights and lamps are said to help the goddess Laksmi find her way into people’s homes, bringing prosperity in the year to come.,” she said.

“It is also a celebration of good over evil.

“Hindus celebrate the return of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lord Laksman to the city of Ayodhya after defeating the evil king Ravana as per the Ramayana.”

Ms Kantharia said Diwali was not only about lights and legends, it is also a time to have fun and spend time with family and friends and exchange sweets and gifts, enjoy delicious feasts and wear new clothes.

“Rangoli is a popular Diwali tradition as well,” she said.

“Beautiful patterns are made using colourful powders and flowers on the floor by the entrance of their homes to welcome gods and bring good luck.”

“We, Gujarati Youth Association would like to wish everyone a very Happy Diwali and a Prosperous New Year.”

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