Happy Diwali/Deepavali ~ November 13, 2012

[Molly53]

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Diwali ~ दीपावली, (also spelled Divali in other countries) or Deepavali is popularly known as the festival of lights. It is an important five-day festival in Hinduism, Sikhism and Jainism, occurring between mid-October and mid-November. For most Hindus and Indians, Diwali is the most important festival of the year and is celebrated with families performing traditional activities together in their homes. Deepavali is an official holiday in India, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Mauritius, Malaysia, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Fiji ,Suriname and Guyana.

Each year on the dawn of Ammavaasa in the month Kartik the glittering diyas ,the dazzling fireworks, sounds of crackers announces the arrival of Diwali. The word Diwali has its origin in the Sanskrit word "Deepavali" which means "rows of light". Diwali or deepavali is the festival signifying the victory of good against evil.

During Deepavali, people pray to Lakshmi, Goddess of wealth, light, prosperty and wisdom, but also to God Ganesha, the 'Remover of Obstacles' or the 'Lord of Beginnings'.

Deepavali marks the end of the harvest season in most of India. Farmers give thanks for the bounty of the year gone by, and pray for a good harvest for the year to come. Traditionally this marked the closing of accounts for businesses dependent on the agrarian cycle, and is the last major celebration before winter.

During Diwali, celebrants wear new clothes and share sweets and snacks with family members and friends. Some Indian business communities begin the financial year on the first day of Diwali, hoping for prosperity the following year.





Click on
Karanji (Gujiya),
Gajar Ka Halwa (Carrot Halwa),
Pista-Badam Phirni (Pistachio and Almonds Rice Pudding),
Kheer,
Rasmalai,
Doodhs,
Kaju and Anjeer Ki Burfee(Cashew Nut and Fig Squares),
Luscious temptations: Dates And Almond Gujias,
Malpua,
Kesar,
Jalebi,
Gulab Jamun,
Dal Vada (chickpea Paties),
Patisa (Soan Papdi)
Kalakand
Coconut and Mixed Fruit Sambal
Masala Puris (Savory, Deep-Fried Indian Flat Bread)
Cucumber Raita
Chicken Curry in a Hurry


OR
Diwali Recipes for some amazing recipes from the web!

What are some of YOUR favorite Diwali/Indian recipes?

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[Leggy Peggy]

Thanks Molly. Hubby and I were in Singapore last year just a few days
after the Diwali celebrations. The decorations were still beautiful.