Skip to main content

Featured

Stalemate Deepens as Government Shutdown Hits Historic Length

House Speaker Mike Johnson, joined at left by Rep. Andrew Garbarino, answers questions at a news conference at the Capitol on day 16 of the government shutdown.  The federal government shutdown has now stretched into its 20th day, officially becoming the third-longest in U.S. history. With no breakthrough in sight, the standoff between Democrats and Republicans continues to paralyze Washington. The Senate is scheduled to vote yet again on a funding measure, marking the 11th attempt to end the impasse. However, both sides remain entrenched: Republicans are pushing for a stopgap bill to extend funding at current levels, while Democrats insist on restoring cuts to Medicaid and securing health care subsidies before reopening the government. The shutdown, which began on October 1, has already furloughed hundreds of thousands of federal workers and disrupted key services. If it continues past October 22, it will surpass the 1995-1996 standoff to become the second-longest in U.S. histo...
Post a Comment
Read more

article

Labels

Diwali: Illuminating the Triumph of Light Over Darkness

                                            People admire oil lamps outside Ahmedabad, India, on Oct. 19. 

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and across the world. Often called the Festival of Lights, it spans five days of joy, devotion, and togetherness. The word Deepavali comes from Sanskrit, meaning “row of lights,” symbolized by the glowing clay lamps (diyas) that adorn homes, temples, and streets during the celebration.

Why is Diwali celebrated?
The reasons vary across regions and faiths, but the essence remains the same: the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.

  • In northern India, Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, with people lighting lamps to welcome him home.
  • In western India, it marks the day Lord Vishnu banished the demon king Bali to the underworld.
  • For Hindus across India, it also honors Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
  • Jains celebrate Diwali as the day Lord Mahavira attained spiritual liberation, while Sikhs observe it as Bandi Chhor Divas, marking Guru Hargobind Ji’s release from imprisonment.

How is it celebrated?
The festival is filled with rituals and festivities:

  • Lighting diyas and candles to invite positivity.
  • Decorating homes with rangoli (colorful floor art).
  • Sharing sweets and gifts with loved ones.
  • Fireworks and community gatherings.
  • Prayers and offerings to deities for prosperity and well-being.

A global celebration
Though rooted in Hindu tradition, Diwali has transcended borders. Today, it is celebrated by over a billion people worldwide, from India to Canada, the UK, the US, and beyond. It’s not just a religious festival but also a cultural event that brings communities together in joy and reflection.

At its heart, Diwali is more than just lights and fireworks—it’s a reminder that even in the darkest times, hope and goodness can shine through.


Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment