Festival of Lights kicks off in Cranberry Township
CRANBERRY TWP — The Hindu Festival of Lights, known as Diwali, has gained attention around the world, and that includes the township, where members of the IDEA team planned a celebration for the third straight year.
Dozens of local residents flocked to the municipal center on Tuesday evening, Oct. 29, to ring in the first day of the five-day holiday, which highlights the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
“I think it’s getting bigger and bigger each year,” IDEA team member Srujana Kanjula said, noting the township festival’s steady rise in popularity. “This time particularly we have added crafts for kids. We have also added dance this time.”
Millions of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists across the globe observe the Festival of Lights, which typically falls between October and November. The first day is called “Dhanteras” and is all about health and prosperity.
Despite the festival’s length, most would describe Diwali as akin to Christmas in the United States because of the significance and traditions of the two holidays.
Just last week, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed bipartisan Senate Bill 402 into law that officially recognized Diwali as an official state holiday.
“This is phenomenal,” said Cranberry Township resident Shilpa Naik, who immigrated to the United States from India. “Lots of people are getting to know about it. You can see people from all over the county here enjoying this evening. It’s such an honor to have our country’s Diwali festival recognized in this land. It’s just very special for us and it makes it feel like home here.”
That kind of acceptance means just a little extra for those who look forward to the holiday ever year.
“I think it’s a good acknowledgment of diversity and embracing other cultures,” Kanjula said. “As an immigrant, I feel this country is the most warm and affectionate in embracing all cultures, so I feel very, very happy and safe about it.”
Elementary school-aged children had the ability to express themselves with crafts and dancing, while all attendees partook in traditional Diwali cuisine.
Khushal Joshi grew up in India before migrating to the United States and raising his family in Cranberry Township. He brought his wife and two children to the Diwali celebration for the first time.
“I think a lot of people are now getting aware about what the festival is all about,” he said. “Overall, it’s nice that you just see the community coming together in Cranberry and celebrating the Diwali Festival.”
