‘When we invite others to experience our traditions, we build understanding’
While many Parc Extension children were out trick-or-treating on Halloween night, more than a hundred people from diverse cultural backgrounds gathered at a Parc Avenue venue to celebrate a traditional Indian festival dedicated to the the spiritual triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance.
Leading members of the Montreal Indian community, including Jatinder Singh Bhandari and C.B. Singh organized the event to mark Diwali, which is is celebrated during the Hindu lunisolar months of Ashvin and Kārtika over a period of around five to six days.
A powerful reminder
“Beyond the beautiful lights and festivities lies a simple but powerful reminder that regardless of our backgrounds or beliefs, we all share a desire for peace, happiness, prosperity and belonging,” Bhandari and Singh wrote in a foreword to a program they published for the event.
“Our vision is simple yet meaningful: to bring people together for a grand Diwali celebration that honors our cultural heritage while embracing the diversity, generosity and spirit of togetherness that define our community,” they said.
“When we invite others to experience our traditions, we build understanding, encourage mutual respect and create connections that extend far beyond any single celebration.”
Celebrated by millions
Last week’s event featured music, cultural performances, traditional dances, Indian food, snacks and sweets, bringing together members of the Indian and larger Montreal communities. Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is celebrated by millions around the world and its traditions vary among religious communities.
While Hindus celebrate Diwali through traditions that include the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya, the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and the triumph of righteousness over evil, Jains commemorate the Nirvana of Lord Mahavira, representing spiritual liberation.
As well, Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, commemorating Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji’s release from imprisonment and the release of 52 other princes, symbolizing freedom and justice. Some Buddhist communities, particularly Newar Buddhists of Nepal, also observe related festivals and traditions involving lamps, renewal, worship and community.
Preserving cultural heritage
Although the religious histories differ, the festival carries a shared message of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, as well as hope, compassion and community. For Canada’s Indian and South Asian communities, Diwali is also an important opportunity to preserve cultural heritage and share it with Canadians of all backgrounds.
For some guests in particular, last week’s celebration was especially meaningful. “For all of us, there is always a battle between intelligence and ego – intelligence and ego are always fighting,” said Jean-Talon St. pharmacy operator Victor Sumbly, highlighting one of Diwali’s most fundamental themes – the conflict between lightness and dark.
