Diwali

About Diwali

Diwali, popularly known as the ‘Festival of Lights’, is considered to be one of the most important events in the Hindu calendar. The festival is in honour of Rama (Hindu God) who is believed to have returned to his people following a 14-year exile period where he fought and won a battle against Ravana (demon king) and demons. To celebrate his victory over evil, people lit their houses. During Diwali, the goddess of happiness and good fortune, Lakshmi who is a symbol prosperity, wealth and happiness is also worshipped.
In South Africa, Diwali is not a public holiday and most Hindus take a day off from work to celebrate the festival.

When is Diwali Celebrated?

Although Diwali is widely celebrated over a period of five days in most Hindu countries, the festival is often observed in a single day in South Africa, although celebrations are spread across the days building up to and around Diwali. The Diwali festival has been officially recognised in South Africa since 1910 and with the establishment of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha (SAHMS) in 1912. SAHMS is a national body that represents the South African Hindu community’s religious and cultural aspirations. The Diwali festival is celebrated in either October or November of each year. This year, the Diwali festival will be observed on Monday, the 24th of October 2022. The festival is observed by South African Indians with both South Indian and North Indian ancestry. The festival is often referred to Deepavali/Diwali.

How is Diwali Celebrated?

The festival symbolizes the victory of righteousness and the lifting of spiritual darkness.
The Hindu community celebrate the festival by lighting of lamps and fireworks. Traditional clothing is worn during the celebrations and traditional Indian feasts are often prepared and enjoyed with loved ones. You can celebrate Diwali by participating in several Diwali Festival events hosted in different cities across South Africa; including Durban, Port Elizabeth and Johannesburg in the weekend leading up to Diwali. SAHMS also hosts the Diwali Festival celebrations filled with cultural celebrations, fireworks, car shows and Indian delicacy food stalls. You can also enjoy great savings from retailers in celebration of Diwali. Shop Diwali Deals on groceries and household items at your nearest Pick n Pay, Checkers, Shoprite, Checkstar and check out more specials at your local supermarkets.

Which Stores have Diwali Sales?

You can also visit your local hardware store for Diwali specials and shop amazing deals on all your Diwali festival essentials.