DIWALI CELEBRATION

Mauritius is a multicultural island, therefore Diwali is celebrated and it is one of the most important religious festivals in Hinduism. Diwali also known as Deepavali is the association of two Sanskrit words which together means - “Row of Light”. This festival symbolises the victory of light over darkness; good over evil and it is celebrated in the holiest month, Kartik maas (October/November).

Diwali is a popular festival which involves lights, fireworks and the traditional sharing of sweets. Diwali is always referred to the countless list of variety of sweets like; Gulab Jamun, Gajar Ka Halwa, Besan Ke Ladoo, Karanji and Jalebis etc.These are the most commonly made sweets on this special occasion.Traditionally, there should be at least 7 varieties of sweets/pastries and they have to be prepared before sunset.

 At sunset, each Hindu family's prayers are addressed to the Goddess Lakshmi and homemade sweets are offered to her on a copper plate called; Tali, decorated with flowers and earthen oil lamps. Only then, after the prayers that the sweets be offered to relatives and friends in colourful paper-made boxes. 

Moreover, earthen oil lamps also named as diyas, are lit and placed in front of every home to dispel darkness and to welcome Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity which will bring joy, happiness and prosperity in the house for the coming year. On this auspicious day when night falls, all cities and villages are illuminated with lights. Earthen diyas, Multi-colored lights illuminating trees, buildings, terraces and houses turning the island into a fairyland of flickering lights.

On this special occasion, we, Coquille Bonheur, wish you all a Happy DIWALI!!!

Read more about the story of Diwali and the Goddess Lakshmi: https://artsandculture.google.com/story/the-story-of-diwali-museum-of-art-photography/GQWxp_hpPG_4Pg?hl=en

Source: https://publicholidays.mu/divali/