Deepavali is almost here, and for millions around the world, that means it’s time to bring on the lights, colours, and, of course, the food!
Known as the Festival of Lights, Deepavali isn’t just any holiday—it’s the most awaited, joy-filled, and vibrant celebration in Hindu and Indian culture. Picture homes glowing with rows of oil lamps, aromas of sweets filling the air, and families decked out in colourful new outfits, all while they exchange gifts and good wishes.
This is the season to celebrate the victory of good over evil and light over darkness in the most festive way possible.
But how did Deepavali come to mean so much? And why are firecrackers, gorgeous rangoli, and tales of gods and demons all part of this celebration? For parents in Singapore, this annual festivity offers a fantastic opportunity to pass on cultural stories, traditions, and values to the next generation.
But what exactly makes Deepavali so significant, and how is it celebrated here in Singapore? Let’s take a closer look!
Why is Deepavali Celebrated?
Source: Facebook/Indian Heritage Centre
Deepavali, the most important festival of the year for many Hindus, as well as other Indian communities, signifies the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. Typically celebrated over five days, it falls on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the Tamil month of Aipasi, which this year is October 31. For North Indians, Deepavali is tied to the legend of Lord Rama, his return to Ayodhya, and the villagers lighting his path with lamps. In South India, it’s linked to the tale of Lord Krishna defeating the demon king Naraka, marking the end of a tyrant’s rule and welcoming a new era of peace and light.
Beyond the epic stories, Deepavali is also associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu deity of wealth and prosperity. Many families pray for her blessings, making this festival a blend of cultural pride, spiritual reverence, and festive joy.
Deepavali vs. Diwali: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve heard both names used, you’re not alone—Deepavali and Diwali are often used interchangeably. Both terms mean “row of lights” in Sanskrit, with “deepa” meaning “light” and “avali” referring to “row.”
In Singapore, the term “Deepavali” is more commonly used, a reflection of Tamil’s importance as one of the nation’s four official languages. “Diwali” is more commonly used across North India, yet both terms reflect the central theme: a festival marked by rows of glowing diyas.
Celebrating Deepavali: Traditions, Foods, and Festivities
From decorating with diyas to creating colourful rangoli patterns, Deepavali brings together diverse traditions across India. Here in Singapore, you’ll often see homes lit with oil lamps and filled with the fragrance of marigold garlands. Families adorn their doorways with intricate rangoli designs made from coloured rice or flower petals, meant to welcome both the goddess Lakshmi and visiting friends and family.
Source: Diwali Recipes | Good Food
Deepavali is also a time for sharing gifts, preparing special treats, and gathering with loved ones. For many families, sweets like gulab jamun and savoury snacks like murukku are essential parts of the celebration. Homes are cleaned, and family members prepare a spread of homemade snacks that showcase flavours unique to their heritage.
The Morning Rituals and Family Gatherings
On Deepavali morning, families perform rituals and prayers before the family shrine, seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being. South Indian families follow the traditional oil bath, which is believed to purify the body and spirit before prayer. Younger family members seek blessings from their elders, a moment rich with cultural significance that reinforces respect across generations.
Many families also visit temples for additional prayers, making the occasion a day to reflect, give thanks, and celebrate togetherness. When evening arrives, homes glow with the light of diyas at windows and doorways, signifying hope, renewal, and the victory of light over darkness.
Festive Attire: Dressing Up for Deepavali
Source: How To Adult
Part of the fun during Deepavali is wearing new clothes, often brightly coloured and intricately decorated. Men and boys commonly wear the dhoti and angavastram, while women and girls don beautiful saris, lehengas, or cholis. Many women adorn their hands with mehndi (henna), a beautiful and auspicious art form symbolizing luck and happiness.
Did you know that newly bought outfits are often dabbed with a bit of turmeric before being placed on the family altar? This small ritual is thought to bless the clothes and show reverence for the festivity.
How Deepavali Shines in Singapore
Singapore has celebrated Deepavali as a public holiday since 1929, and every year, the city-state transforms into a vibrant display of lights, colours, and performances. Little India, centred around Serangoon Road, is the heart of Singapore’s Deepavali festivities. Here, you’ll find elaborate light displays and decorations that bring an extra glow to the district in the weeks leading up to the festival.
In addition to lights, families can enjoy performances and activities, including the annual Kalaa Utsavam – Festival of Indian Arts at the Esplanade. Held from November 15 to 24 this year, the festival highlights the richness of Indian culture through dance, theatre, workshops, and talks.
One of Singapore’s most significant Deepavali traditions is the Theemithi, or Firewalking Festival, held annually at the Sri Mariamman Temple. Thousands of men walk barefoot across burning charcoal to honour the goddess Sri Drowpathai Amman. This ritual, steeped in cultural meaning and religious fervour, is a powerful expression of faith that continues to draw participants and spectators alike.
Fun Fact: A Record-Breaking Rangoli
Deepavali celebrations in Singapore even hold a Guinness World Record! India-born artist Vijaya Mohan set a record in 2003 for the largest rangoli, which covered a massive 256 square meters and took seven hours to complete at the Whampoa Community Club. Now a Singaporean citizen, Vijaya has gone on to create over 20,000 rangolis locally and internationally, making her a beloved figure in the rangoli art community.
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Why Deepavali Matters for Our Families
As parents, celebrating Deepavali can be a meaningful way to teach our children about resilience, kindness, and cultural pride. The holiday’s messages of light and renewal resonate beyond religious boundaries, encouraging families to reflect on what brings light into their lives.
Deepavali can be an opportunity for families in Singapore to embrace the values of unity, generosity, and hope. From decorating the home with our kids to sharing stories of our heritage, the festival brings everyone together to celebrate these shared values.
Make This Deepavali Meaningful for Your Family
With October 31 just days away, this is the perfect time to start planning your family’s Deepavali celebration. Whether you’re lighting diyas, creating a colourful rangoli, or simply enjoying traditional sweets with your loved ones, take a moment to appreciate the festival’s deeper meaning.
After all, Deepavali is more than a holiday; it’s a reminder of the light we all carry within and the power of kindness, hope, and unity.
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