For the first time in the history of GLOW, we celebrated the Indian Festival of Lights: Diwali. On Sunday, November 12, visitors could experience the magic of Diwali, thanks to the Indian Center In Netherlands. Hundreds of lights adorned the island of Markt, symbolizing the spiritual triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Together with the Indian Ambassador, we marked this special day.

Diwali honors various religious events, gods, and personalities. One such event commemorates the return of Rama with his wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana to his kingdom in Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. The festival of lights is also associated with Lakshmi (the goddess of prosperity) and Ganesha (the god of wisdom and the remover of obstacles). Other traditions connect the festival of lights with deities such as Vishnu, Krishna, Shiva, and Kali. For instance, Newar Buddhists celebrate Diwali by worshiping Lakshmi, while Hindus in East India and Bangladesh worship the goddess Kali. During the festival, homes, temples, and workplaces are illuminated with diyas (oil lamps), candles, and lanterns. It is a period of homecoming and connection.

The Indian Ambassador came to celebrate Diwali in Eindhoven. Together with NOS, we created a short documentary about this special gathering.