Diwali is the five-day festival of lights, celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world, and was also celebrated here, for a third time, in the Spearline HQ offices in Skibbereen. The word Diwali derives from the Sanskrit word deepavali, which means “rows of lighted lamps” . Homes, shops and public spaces are adorned with small oil lamps known as diyas. People also enjoy candy and fireworks, so it’s popular with kids. During Diwali a number of activites take place:Â
- On the streets and in homes, many lights and oil lamps are lit.
- People visit their families and have celebrations.Â
- Fireworks and festivals are an essential part of the opportunity to worship Lakshmi,Â
the Hindu goddess of prosperity, as the blesser for the new year.
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A terrific medley of light, sound ,color and the victory of light(good) over darkness(evil). In our offices Spearliners took part in a rangoli competition, using printed designs or freehand, each demonstrating their creative flair with some gorgeous colouring. Rangoli is an art form, originating in the Indian subcontinent, in which patterns are created on the floor or the ground using materials such as colored rice, dry flour, colored sand or flower petals. Candles were lit on every desk in every room in the offices. We then all met downstairs with Dhaval and his family leading us in a prayer from the Bhagavad Gita, and enjoyed some delicious meals afterwards. A beautiful day celebrated, we hope all of our Spearliners, all across the globe, enjoy this fantastic festival!Â
