If there is one festival you don’t want to miss, it’s Diwali, a traditional event celebrated in India which goes on for many days. The Aurora Public Library District (APLD) in continuing its tradition, will be host to its annual large-scale Diwali celebration, throughout this month for virtual events!
Commonly known as The Festival of Lights, Diwali is a celebration of good prevailing over evil, as represented by the Hindu legend of the hero Rama, and his victory over the evil tyrant Ravana to save his wife, Sita. When they returned to their home in the capital of Ayoghya, the city exploded with joy and citizens flooded the streets with lamps and candles to celebrate, lighting up the night.
The Diwali events will start Friday, Nov. 6. First, register for a Tealight Craft Kit, then enjoy our Bollywood-themed Let’s Dance party November 10. After that, you can grab something to drink and make your own Chai tea by following a tutorial. Finally, finish the holiday week by appreciating the beauty and artistry behind the traditional Hindu Sari garments and Rangoli designs.
“The lineup of events for this week showcases the arts, traditions, and customs, of Diwali and Indian culture in general,” said events and programs coordinator, Krista Danis. “For example, our Sari and Rangoli showcase is a way to highlight and illuminate the colorful dress often worn by Indian women, as well as to exhibit the beauty of Rangoli designs created by members of our community.”
Other fun and delicious events will be offered as well, such as how to make your own at-home Chai tea and crafting your own Tea Light Candle. “These fun crafts and events enable us to feel a deeper connection to the rich culture of our Indian neighbors here in Aurora,” Danis said. “By learning about the cultures of our diverse community, particularly those that are non-white and non-dominant in the U.S., we open doors for connection that foster deeper respect for traditions and values that might seem unfamiliar.”
These events are designed for everyone in Aurora to learn about Hindi and Indian culture and traditions, as well as to celebrate this wonderful tradition. You do not need to be Hindu, spend money, have a Library card, or even leave your home to partake in these programs. All you need is curiosity! If you want to learn more about the holiday, APLD offers a wide collection of books, movies, and music which cover anything from Bollywood films to Indian cuisine. To find out more about these events, visit aurorapubliclibrary.org/events and join us, as well as millions of people around the world, to celebrate Diwali.