The Hindu festival of lights Diwali, also called Deepavali was from Oct. 30 through November 3rd. This year the community celebrates at Olympia High School on Nov. 16. Here’s what one can expect.
Diwali is a five day celebration that takes place in the second half of October or the first half of November on a moonless night. The name comes from Sanskrit ‘dipa’ and ‘vali,’ meaning ‘lamp’ and ‘row,’ respectively to form Diwali which means ‘row of light.’ It symbolizes light over darkness or good over evil. Common themes include lighting candles, oil lamps (diyas) and fireworks.
Previously, the Indian community in Olympia hosted the community event at Capital High School; however, the festivities have been brought to Olympia High School this year on Saturday, Nov. 16.
Murli Patro, a volunteer for the event, stated that his job involves “ posting advertisements with flyers, printing and selling of the tickets, collecting money, and coordinating the money.” Patro clarified that anyone can attend, and that there is no attire requirement; however, bright colors are traditional as they represent the core theme of light.
Attendees may arrive starting at 2 p.m. through 2:30 p.m., “as there will be various people from the community speaking and performing” in the OHS performing arts center throughout the afternoon, as Patro outlined.
Junior Arya Prabakar will be one of the masters of ceremonies, going out on stage and introducing performers. This is his second year in the role; he has performed since the age of five. “I have been doing this for a long time, and the day will be long, but it’s going to be fun,” Prabakar stated.
Dinner is catered by the Bellevue-based Biryani Bowl and Amulya Indian Cuisine and will consist of a medley of cuisines from all over India and will be served in the OHS commons. “There will be Indian sweets and much more to look forward to, including a DJ,” Prabakar said. At the end of the night after dinner, the DJ plays music from India to fill the atmosphere as the community comes together young and old to dance.
