ஹாப்பி தீபாவளி
அஷ்வின், பிரியா, பிரபாகர் அண்ட் லேஅன்ன்
that's "Happy Deepavali,
Ashwin, Priya, Prabhakar and Leann " written in Tamil script, which both Ashwin and Priya are learning to read and write in school!
After the heat, and then two weeks of incredible monsoon rains, it's a gorgeous day - and today is Deepavali, which is the biggest Hindu festival of the year throughout India. Also known as the 'Festival of Lights', according to today's paper, 'the festival basically celebrates the triumph of good over evil', however there are regional differences in the legend behind the festival and also in how it is celebrated. Here in Tamil Nadu,' the day commemorates the killing of the demon king Narakasura by Lord Krishna's wife Sathyabama.'
As Christian's, we don't have to bother too much about the symbolism behind the festivities, we can just enjoy the trappings. The major elements include: a day off school/work, visiting friends and family, lighting firecrackers, shopping, and of course lots of good food - especially sweets!
Pictured above are a couple of photos from our trip to a local cracker shop (that's cracker as in fire, not Ritz) then of course, lighting the crackers. There is picture of Ashwin and Priya and their cousin Pauline admiring sweets and then a visit to some friends who served us wonderful bonda and the absolute best dosa that kidsinchennai staff have ever tasted! Thanks Meena!!
May the lamps of joy illuminate your life and fill your days with the bright sparkles of peace and good will. Happy Deepavali!
6 comments:
Hi guys-really enjoying your blog. Wonderful pics and such cultural things to take advantage of for the kids & you. Hope all is well-e-mail us-love to hear from you! p.s. How's Phoenix-think of him often! P&J
Hi all:
Great pictures and stories about your adventures this year! We miss you and look forward to seeing you at Park when you return.
Take care,
Kelly Bonnevie & family
this looks like sooo much fun!! wish we could celebrate with you all and try some of the awesome sounding food. also, please send me pat's email and I will send pix and info on Phoenix to her. Thanks, Aunt Leslee
Hi, Everyone!
I know today is Ashwin's birthday (USA time zone), but I'm sorry I probably missed it in India.
But I do wish you a great birthday, Ashwin, and hope it is very special!
Love,
Arlene
Hi guys:
Thank you for all the great updates. It is wonderful to share in what you are doing. And it is great to know you are all doing so well. We miss you and think of you daily. Happy Birthday Aishwin!
jm,jac and aidan
Great pictures of family and festivities! How did Prabhu ever make a selection in the cracker store?? We now have a better understanding of Priya's excitement when telling us of the fireworks! Love, Mom/Nana
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