Diwali, the Festival of Lights, always brings a sense of warmth and joy. It’s a time for family, for feasts, and for the flickering beauty of diyas lighting up homes. As a practicing Hindu and Buddhist, Diwali has always held a special place in my heart, but this year, the celebration took on a new meaning.
Reclaiming Tradition, Embracing Inclusivity
Growing up, Diwali was a time of mixed emotions. While I cherished the traditions and stories, being a queer and gender-fluid individual often left me feeling like an outsider in my own family. The very essence of community and acceptance that Diwali celebrated felt out of reach.
It was through finding my chosen family, a vibrant community of queer Desi individuals and people from diverse faiths, that I began to reclaim Diwali. Together, we built an interfaith table, a testament to the Hindu belief “Ekam Sat Vipraha Bahudha Vadanti” – one truth, many paths. Our Diwali celebrations became a tapestry of traditions, a space where Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Christians gathered to honor the light within and around us.
A Virtual Diwali: Finding Hope and Connection in Challenging Times
This year, amidst a global pandemic and a world grappling with social and political unrest, our Diwali celebration was undoubtedly different. Instead of gathering in person, we connected virtually. And you know what? It was more beautiful than we could have imagined.
Seeing faces from across the country, each a beacon of light, sharing intentions, reflections, and hope for the year ahead, filled me with immense gratitude. It reaffirmed the power of community, even when physically apart.
Navigating Tradition and Change
I understand that for some, the idea of a multi-faith, virtual Diwali might seem unconventional. But for me, it embodies the very essence of the festival – adapting, evolving, and finding light in the face of darkness.
Diwali reminds us that our light shines brighter when we help illuminate the world around us. It’s about embracing our authentic selves, honoring our traditions while remaining open to new interpretations, and above all, spreading love, kindness, and joy.
A Prayer for the Year Ahead
As we move into the new year, may we carry the spirit of Diwali within us – a spirit of resilience, hope, and unwavering faith.
May your year be filled with healing, joy, love, and of course, an abundance of delicious desserts!
Raja Gopal Bhattar, Ph.D., (they/them/theirs), is a higher education leader, advocate, and consultant. Bhattar is a 2020 Interfaith America Racial Equity Fellow and a firm believer in the power of interfaith dialogue and community building.
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