RELIGION

  • Divali

“The festival of Divali has existed from time immemorial, ever since man became aware of truth and untruth, darkness and light, death and immortality. Divali (or alternatively Deepawali, Deepavali or Diwali) is the Festival Of Light. Hindus celebrate it all over the world. In Trinidad and Tobago, particularly for our Hindu nationals, it has not lost any of its significance nor is it celebrated with any less fervor.”

taken from http://www.visittnt.com/ToDo/events/Divali/Introduction.htm

Among the hindu community in Trinidad, the celebration of Divali means the celebration of light over darkness, good over evil, justice over injustice and intelligence over ignorance. Divali is celebrated in the month of Kartik in the hindu calendar every year. During this celebration, thanks is given to the goddess Lakshmi Mata or Mother Lakshmi, who is the goddess of light, wealth and beauty and is sometimes associated with prosperity. This deity is acknowledged in the form of puja, bhajans and chanting mantras. Deyas are lit during the night (which is the darkest night of the year) to welcome Mother Lakshmi and celebrate the triumph of light over darkness.

The symbolism of light is essential to this festival. It is understood that without light there can be no life. Light is responsible for the development of all that is living. Light is associated with heat, the sun and the divine. It is also stated that during this day Mother Lakshmi resides in the flame of the deya making the purpose of lighting the deyas (clay lamps) even more significant.

 

  • Eid-ul-Fitr

One of the major religious festivals in South Trinidad, and indeed, country-wide, is Eid-ul-Fitr. It is celebrated by followers of Islam i.e. Muslims. Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, the month of fasting. During this month, Muslims awaken before dawn, offer prayers, and begin fasting after a light breakfast. They go without food or water for the entire day, until they break their fast at dusk. During this time, Muslims are not allowed to engage in any immoral behaviour or thoughts; their minds and bodies are supposed to be kept pure. It is hoped that, at the end of Ramadan, a Muslim would have developed a high level of spirituality and, thus, would be able to lead a better life. Eid-ul-Fitr is a time of great joy and celebration. The morning begins with prayers, usually at a mosque, followed by the greeting of friends and relatives. At this time, an important gesture is giving charity. To welcome Eid, the Muslim homes are thoroughly cleaned and decorated. On the day Eid, lunch is a huge feast, and is usually celebrated with a family gathering. Eid has been declared a public holiday since 1967.