Deepavali is the Festival of Lights, a celebration of the triumph—of light over darkness, good over evil. 

Did you know that the term ‘Deepavali’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Dīpāval’i, which is formed by two words, ‘dipa’ meaning light or lamp and ‘avali’ meaning series or row. In Singapore, Malaysia and South India region, most people use the term ‘Deepavali’ whereas, in parts of North India, most use the term ‘Diwali’ (some interesting syllable reduction! Perhaps due to influence from the Indian languages spoken in the North). 

Before we celebrate the festive day itself, there are some preparations that need to be done—like spring cleaning, decorating our homes, and shopping for traditional outfits!  Every year, we choose a colour palette. And then we go shopping! This year, I’ve chosen a palette of deep pink, purple and yellow hues. Finding The One (the ultimate desired outfit) is always deeply satisfying. We also spend time putting up various decorations to usher in the Deepavali vibes. 

My family also participates in traditional practices that many Singaporean households observe during Deepavali, such as lighting up oil lamps at doorway entrances on Deepavali Eve as a mark of inviting of prosperity into houses. We mark newly bought traditional outfits with turmeric, a symbol of sanctity, and place them at the altar to show respect for the festivity and invite blessings for the whole family. On the morning of Deepavali itself, all family members apply a mixture of oil and shikakai (botanical term: acacia concinna, a medicinal herb) on the tip of their heads gently with three fingers. This practice is believed to help remove all impurities, after which family members go for their baths and change into their new clothes.

Throughout the day, there are many different traditions adults and children both enjoy, such as playing with sparklers and poppers. And don’t forget another enjoyable tradition—savouring goodies! Families indulge in festive treats and delicacies such as murukku, omam podi, pakora, kueh tarts and kueh makmur. My favourites are murukku and kueh tarts; the crunch and spice of the murukku cannot be found anywhere else! And, of course, who can say no to a kueh tart (or two, or five?).

My family looks forward to these fun and classic parts of Deepavali celebrations. We also love inviting non-Indian friends to participate in the festivities and share our joy. In a multicultural Singapore, it is common to have friends of diverse ethnicities come together during various festivals and have a taste of all the different practices and celebrations!  On behalf of BLIP Lab, I wish everyone a very Happy Deepavali. 

This post was originally crafted by Eshawaaree, a research associate at BLIP.