One of the most popular festivals of Hinduism, Diwali symbolises the spiritual ‘victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance.’ Light is a metaphor for knowledge and consciousness. By tradition, temples homes, shops and office buildings are brightly illuminated during the celebrations. A five day celebration arounf the end of October and early November, it is comprable to Western harvest festivals.
“Whereas festive food in Christian churches is largely confined to mince pies with a glass of mulled wine at Christmas and hot cross bun, chocolate eggs or seminal cake at Easter, communal dining is central to Hindus,” said Biswal,” who was born in India, adding, “As a child in India , I would look forward to new clothes and a week-long holiday from school.
“Entire cities are illuminated with lamps and communities get together around fireworks displays and endless feasting. Diwali today is very multicultural and multi–religious. The Indian diaspora in cities like London and New York use it as a communal event to bring people together,” he said.
In India, some temples sell food farmed on their own land, whilst others provide free meals cooked by volunteers. Hindu practices vary widely within its three main sects – Vishnavs, Shivaites, and Shaktas. Some temples in Nepal even serve pork.
‘Blessed foods,’ usually dried fruits, nuts and sweet (including Jaggery (sweet rock) are eaten according to specific Hindu sects’ religious customs and practices. In North India most Vaishnav sects prefer nuts, dried fruits, Laddoos (sweet snacks) and Payasam (sweeten rice). Temples dedicated for Lord Shiva in Eastern India, typically have Ganja or Bhang (cannabis) laced dishes, whereas temples dedicated to goddess Shakti (Kali or Durga) may prepare the meat from sacrificial goat and buffalo.