Happy Diwali

To our Hindu/Sikh members.

 

Happy Diwali Dev,
I hope you have many lamps ready, and sweeties

 

I dare say I'll put on a few grams today.

 

Don't our Jain members also celebrate Diwali? Actually, I've learnt something new as I didn't realize that Sikhs and Hindus shared this festival.

Happy Diwali, Dev.

Steve

...and please come again Sir (Simpsons quote - couldn't resist)

 

OK Jain too .

 

Happy Diwali!

Hope you get a pressie from Laksmi!

 

That would be nice.

 

Steve,

This link shows why Diwali is an important holy day for Sikhs and Jains.

 

Thanks Dev, I like the idea of a festival celebrating the attainment of Nirvana achieved to a state of absolute bliss. For myself, I'd happily settle for a little bit of bliss every now and again and of course with my speakers ...

Seriously, I've often wondered whether Christianity would become a greater force for the good if Christ was celebrated not as G-d but as a man who achieved Nirvana. The message might then be "Strive to be like Christ" rather than "Wasn't he wonderful - better worship him".

Rumela's web site doesn't mention whether there's much family involvement in the celebration of Diwali, although sweets often imply children. I'd guess that there is though. One of the unsung benefits of much religious activity is the bringing together and strengthening of the family. This is certainly true for the Jewish religion, while with Christianity I think of the Simpsons attending their church together. Is this also true in the celebration of Diwali?

Regards
Steve

 

Yes, it is very much a family event. What with the eating and going to the Temple later for another feast and coming back home and after another snack or two and fireworks, it's very hard work. Especially considering how rich the (vegetarian) food is. Strictly speaking there is no drinking or eating meat.

Of course I'm paying for it today.

 

Happy Diwali

I miss it here (Aberystwyth) to be honest, where I live at home theres a large asian community and the celebrations are cool...sooo many fireworks, and we always get given loads of lush Indian food by the family who live over the road

 

Strictly speaking?

 

Sikhs are Hindus are largely vegetarians and on Diwali and other religious days, they try harder not to take a life or get legless, but there's always one or two.

 

Nice photo on the PP site: Festival of Light

I think a number of people are considering converting in time for next year. Hindu, Jain or Sikh - Dev, any particular recommendations?

Cheers
Steve

 

I'm obviously biased, so I wouldn't take advice from me

 

An ex of mine lived in Goodmayes (two train stops from you I believe), and the fireworks that were let off around there were amazing! Some of the neighbours she was friendly with would drop in a few snacks for us too

 

Actually I live in Goodmayes, which is part of Ilford. Yes the fireworks are a pain, sorry amazing.

 

Well, she's MOved into London now, but used to be Mayesbrook road, sandwiched between the two parks.

After we split up, I told her it wasn't her I missed, but the curry houses and the fact there were Irish bars which showed Celtic games on the big screen

 

Well, if you are ever around these parts again, just pop around and say hello. I'm about 5 minutes walk from Goodmayes station or Mayesbrook Road.