Photo: David Talukdar / Moment / Getty Images
The five-day celebration of Diwali that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness started last night throughout the Garden State. The festival is observed by Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains, each with their unique traditions and rituals.
Hindus across the New Jersey gathered at the largest Hindu Mandir in the United States to mark the occasion. The temple was aglow with thousands of diyas (oil lamps), symbolizing the spiritual “victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.”
Jains, on the other hand, embraced the festival by fasting and adorning their houses of worship with lights. The radiant decorations serve as a reminder of the guiding light of spiritual wisdom that leads one to achieve Moksha, or liberation from the cycle of life and death.
Sikhs celebrated Diwali by reflecting on the teachings of their sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji, who was known for his selflessness. The festival is a time for Sikhs to remember and honor his legacy of always putting others first.
Diwali continues through Wednesday, November 15th.