Festival of lights

Diwali – the festival of lights brings millions across the India to celebrate the occasion on October 20 with homes decorated with flickering diyas, streets burst into color, and families gather over plates of rich, fragrant food to mark the triumph of light over darkness, hope over despair, and good over evil. The celebration, timeless and deeply woven into India’s cultural fabric, carries both joy and meaning. Diwali is a national emotion. It marks renewal – of faith, prosperity, and purpose. From bustling markets to the quiet corners of distant villages, the air is filled with the happiness and anticipation. It is also a time when business deals are made, new ventures begin, and families exchange gifts with smiles that reach their eyes. The Diwali spirit of generosity and goodwill flows freely, that bring reminder that happiness grows when it is shared. Yet beyond its spectacular lights and festive abundance, Diwali also holds a deeper message- that India, in its vast diversity, must remember with reverence. The festival’s true meaning lies not in the number of lamps being lighted or the fireworks that dazzle the night sky, but in how brightly it allows the inner light of compassion and unity to shine. Diwali is most beautiful when it becomes a celebration not just of wealth, but of togetherness. In a nation of 1.3 billion people, every community- regardless of faith, region, or language- adds its own spark to India’s luminous mosaic. From the grandeur of North India’s temple festivities to the serene lamps floating on South India’s rivers, from the joyful markets of western India to the quiet hill towns of the Northeast, Diwali takes on many shades – yet all radiate the same warmth. This shared celebration reminds people that their strength as a nation lies not in uniformity, but in unity through diversity. Nagaland, and particularly Dimapur, offers special mention in this spirit. Dimapur, the state’s cosmopolitan composition is known for freedom of religion and mutual respect among communities. The city stands as a microcosm of what India aspires to be- a land where everyone is free to rejoice in their beliefs, to celebrate their festivals, and to live in harmony. The sight of lamps glowing in homes across faiths in Dimapur reflects a rare beauty: the beauty of acceptance and shared humanity. Therefore, as Diwali arrives, it is to reaffirm to let its light extend beyond the windows and courtyards. May also Diwali across the nation, illuminate hearts that may have grown weary of division or indifference. It is an endearing which that the festival renew people’s collective resolve to build an India where peace is not just hoped for but practiced daily – in how citizens speak, work, and care for one another. As people light up lamps, may every diya lit be a reminder of what truly matters- fraternity that transcends boundaries, understanding that bridges differences, and kindness that multiplies joy. For when the light of Diwali shines not only in homes and streets but in the hearts of every citizen, it becomes more than a festival : it becomes a promise: a promise of harmony, renewal, and an India united in hope and humanity.