Celebrating Culture and Community: Diwali at the Pearl S. Buck House
Rep. Tim Brennan October 31, 2024 | 10:39 AM
Before enjoying the beautiful photos from the Diwali celebration hosted by Desis of Doylestown on October 27, 2024, please take a moment to read this explainer from the organization's president, Aparna Nair:
Diwali is a major festival celebrated primarily in India and by Indian communities worldwide. Often called the "Festival of Lights," Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. The festival has deep roots in Hindu mythology but is also celebrated by people of various faiths across South Asia, including Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, each adding unique cultural traditions.
Diwali lasts five days, with the main celebration typically on the third day. Families come together to clean and decorate their homes, light oil lamps or candles called diyas, and arrange colorful patterns known as rangoli at their doorsteps. Lights play a central role, symbolizing hope, joy, and the dispelling of negativity. Fireworks and sparklers are also common, filling the night sky with light and color.
For many, Diwali is a time to share delicious foods, exchange gifts, and gather with loved ones. Traditional sweets, or mithai, are a must-have treat, and many families cook special dishes as part of the celebration. It's also a time to reflect on the values of compassion, kindness, and gratitude. Diwali can be compared to the warmth of Christmas or Thanksgiving in Western culture. It's about coming together, creating a joyful and welcoming atmosphere, and celebrating the victory of hope and light.
Thank you, Aparna!
The Desis of Doylestown held this year's Diwali celebration at the historic Pearl S. Buck House, bringing together more than 450 attendees for an afternoon of cultural performances, local vendors, and rich tradition. The festival highlighted the diversity and unity within our community, with a lively lineup of performances and activities that embodied Diwali’s spirit of joy and connection.
The stage came alive with children performing Bollywood dances, as well as traditional Bharatanatyam and Kathak performances that captured the essence of India’s classical art forms. Singers delighted the crowd with songs in multiple languages, showcasing the linguistic richness of South Asia.
Vai Haridas and husband Harshal Haridas performed a Marathi couple dance in the Cultural round of fashion show representing the culture of the state of Maharashtra in India with dress and song selection
A special cultural round in the fashion show highlighted the beauty of India’s many states, with participants wearing traditional attire representing various Indian regions. From colorful saris and vibrant lehengas to intricate embroidery and unique designs, each outfit told a story of its origin, bringing India’s diverse heritage to life. The fashion show also featured rounds dedicated to Western evening gowns and a fusion of modern and traditional styles, celebrating the blend of cultures that enrich our community.
Held at the Pearl S. Buck House—a site dedicated to bridging cultural divides—the event also offered a marketplace where local vendors shared handcrafted items, jewelry, and traditional foods, alongside allies from across our community.
It was heartening to witness our community come together to celebrate Diwali’s message of hope and renewal. The energy, warmth, and support from attendees underscored the power of cultural connection in our district.
As your representative, I am proud to support events like these, which bring us closer and highlight the vibrant diversity that strengthens our community. Thank you to Desis of Doylestown and everyone involved for making this celebration such a memorable success.
With Aparna Nair, President of Desis of Doylestown, and Arya Haridas, a Central Bucks East Senior who performed Bharatnatayam, a traditional dance from South of India.