“Tết” Ánh sáng - Diwali: Cộng đồng Ấn Độ tại Việt Nam chuẩn bị ăn mừng những thành công của Ấn Độ

Enghlish version

Festival of Lights – Diwali: TheIndian community in Vietnam is going to celebrate the success of India in 2023

Just like in Vietnam, Autumn is the season of festivals in India, the most significant of which is Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. The Festival is widely celebrated all over India and among Indian communities in the world, akin to Vietnam's Tet Nguyen Dan. Held in November each year, when the scorching heat of summer has passed and the cool breeze fills the air, Diwali is a time for people in India to welcome light and a fresh start after months of hard works. As of now not only the Indian people in the country but also the Indian communities all over the world are intensively preparing for Diwali, much like how Vietnamese people prepare for the Tet gathering to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new year.

The word "Diwali" is derived from the Sanskrit term "Deepavali," which means "a series of lamps." However, the origin of this festival is closely tied to the mythical story of Ramayana, recounting the return of King Rama and his wife, Sita, after 14 years of exile and their battle against the demon Ravana. The return of Rama, Sita, and his brother Lakshmana was celebrated with the illumination of countless lamps and candles. Therefore, lighting lamps and candles is a must during Diwali. People adorn their homes with lights, candles, and lanterns, creating a splendid and radiant atmosphere. Diwali is also celebrated as a triumph of good over evil. The variety of lantern shapes and colors convey messages of brightness and hope. Traditional oil lamps and lanterns, while beautiful, have raised concerns about air pollution and smoke. Consequently, in many places in India, led lights and eco-friendly candles are now used to protect the environment while maintaining the festival's grandeur.

Diwali is also an opportunity for people in India to gather with friends and family. They exchange gifts and enjoy traditional delicacies. Sweets and cakes like mithai, samosas and laddu are prepared and shared during these days. Musical performances, dances, and rituals honoring deities take place all over the country during this time.

Today, Diwali in India is not only the most significant festival for its people but is also becoming a noteworthy international event. It's a chance for tourists from around the world to visit and experience the beauty and unique style of this festival. Diwali is not only a fascinating cultural festival, but also symbolize the spirits of sharing, unity, and hope in life, illuminating the dark days with light and love for the people all over the world.

This year, Indian people have many good reasons to celebrate the Festival of Lights in a big way, as the economy is thriving and becoming an attractive destination for major global technology giants. As a busy Chair of the G20 this year, India has successfully hosted series of conferences at various levels, including heads of state meetings for the world's leading nations.

The Indian Business Chamber in Hanoi (Incham Hanoi), comprising an increasing number of Indian businesses and the Indian community in Vietnam, will organize the Diwali Festival on the evening of December 02, 2023, at the J. Marriot Hotel, Hanoi. Besides Indian traditional food, guests will have chance to be entertained with the rock music and Bollywood dance performed by a professional Cultural Troupe from India. Registration for the event can be confirmed to Hanoi Incham Office email: [email protected]. Incham Hanoi warmly welcomes the entire Indian community in Vietnam and at the same time hopes to see many Vietnamese friends coming to enjoy and experience the beautiful features of Indian culture and also celebrate the achievements in the Vietnam – India relations as well as to welcome the new lights coming to the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between our two nations.