Aurora & Naperville aglow: Diwali's rich tapestry of civilization, culture and community
Diwali, often referred to as the Festival of Lights, is a joyous and spiritually significant celebration in Hindu culture. Derived from the Sanskrit word "Deepavali," which means a row of lights, the festival symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Diwali is observed with great enthusiasm by Hindus across the globe. The lighting of oil lamps or Diyas is a central ritual during Diwali, representing the dispelling of ignorance and the illumination of one's inner self with knowledge.
Diwali spans five days of vibrant festivities, each with its own special significance.
The Hindu Americans of Aurora and Naperville celebrated this year's Diwali with a lot of enthusiasm.
Hindu Swayamsewak Sangh collaborated with the cities of Aurora and Naperville to organize "Darshana," an exhibition showcasing and celebrating the Hindu civilization.
The Aurora Diwali Darshana was organized by Indian American Community Outreach Advisory Board and was graced by Mayor Richard Irvin, Alderwoman Juany Garza, Alderwoman Shweta Baid, Aurora's equity and communication officer Clayton Mohammad, Alderman Brandon Tolliver, Alderman At-Large Ron Woerman.
While the Naperville Diwali program was organized by Nag & Sheela Jaiswal's Salome Foundation. This event in the Naperville City Hall was graced by Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli, Councilwoman Allison Longenbaugh, Councilman Josh McBroom, Councilor General of Bharat Somanath Ghosh.
The cities of Aurora and Naperville also issued individual proclamations to recognize the efforts of Hindu Swaymsevak Sangh and Sewa, who in collaboration with over 50 Hindu and Indian organizations, hosts a food drive every year during the festival of Diwali. The video of the proclamation issued by Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin can be seen on the A3N Media YouTube channel.
The video of the proclamation issued by Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli and the speech by Councilor General of Bharat Somanath Ghosh can be seen on YouTube.
The Hindu Americans of Aurora & Naperville are thankful to the city councils, the organizers Indian American Community Outreach Advisory Board and Salome Foundation, and also to the selfless volunteers of Hindu Swayamsewak Sangh for further brightening this year's Diwali, which encapsulates the spirit of dharma, or righteous living, as individuals strive to cultivate virtues, foster compassion, and strengthen familial bonds. The festival serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all beings and the eternal pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. As families come together to celebrate Diwali, they partake in the timeless traditions that have been passed down through generations, fostering a sense of unity and cultural continuity.