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Diwali: The Light of Selflessness and Spiritual Triumph
It (Diwali) reminds people to practice dharma (righteousness) and reflect on how they can maintain the purity of mind and heart exemplified by Bhagwan Ram.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj lights Diwali diyas. / BAPS
In the ancient scriptures and teachings of Hinduism, the victory of good over evil is not merely a mythological narrative but a living philosophy that inspires countless generations to strive for righteousness. The festival of Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, is celebrated with immense joy and reverence by millions worldwide.
It marks the triumph of good over evil, symbolized by the return of Bhagwan Ram and Sita ji to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile. As the story from the Ramayana recounts, the people of Ayodhya lit thousands of diyas to welcome their king and queen back to the kingdom, signifying the end of darkness and the dawn of a new era of righteousness. This momentous occasion, celebrated to this day, underscores the spiritual victory of virtue over vice and the light that dispels ignorance and negativity.
The festival also ushers in the Hindu New Year for many, and the lighting of diyas in homes continues to represent the triumph of light over darkness. On Diwali day at homes, the first diya is lit and is in turn used to ignite the others, symbolizing how one small flame can illuminate many, collectively dispelling the darkness that once prevailed. This act serves as a powerful reminder that Diwali is not just about external celebrations but also about nurturing an inner light that can guide individuals throughout the year.
In line with this, Diwali is seen as a time for self-reflection and spiritual renewal. The festival encourages individuals to look within and commit to sustaining their own inner light, which can help them navigate the challenges of the year ahead. It reminds people to practice dharma (righteousness) and reflect on how they can maintain the purity of mind and heart exemplified by Bhagwan Ram. For many, this inward focus embodies the teachings of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, who often said, "In the joy of others, lies our own." His message resonates deeply with the spirit of Diwali, urging people to extend their inner light to others, creating a ripple effect of good, joy, and kindness over evil.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj exemplified his teachings through his actions. In 2002, terrorists attacked the Swaminarayan Akshardham, Gandhinagar, killing one sadhu, dozens of innocent civilians, and several National Armed Forces. Pramukh Swami Maharaj, understanding the severity of the situation, appealed to the public to maintain peace and pray for those who had been lost, thus alleviating escalating ethnic tensions. His response calling for peace, harmony, and forgiveness echoed in the hearts and minds of thousands of people around the world. United States Congressman Anthony Weiner and an Anti-Terrorism Conference in Germany both cited his response as the ideal response to terrorism; they coined that peaceful response the ‘Akshardham Response.’ Such thoughtful gestures exemplify how, even during dark times, the light of selflessness, tolerance and harmony can shine brightly, bringing comfort and hope to others.
His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, his spiritual successor, continues this legacy of service and compassion. His teachings emphasize that lighting others' candles—whether through kind words, acts of service, or small gestures of care—spreads joy far and wide. He often reminds devotees that selflessness need not be grand. Simple, everyday actions can have a profound impact on others and deepen one’s own sense of fulfillment. He encourages people to think of ways they can share their light throughout the year, not just during Diwali, but in every interaction and relationship.
Incorporating this message, Diwali reminds us that lighting another's candle can begin within one’s own home. Helping family members with tasks, offering words of encouragement, or simply making time for loved ones can brighten their day. Outside the home, small acts of kindness—such as posting a positive review for a local business or letting someone with fewer items go ahead in line—extend the Diwali spirit to the wider community. These simple gestures, much like the diya lit across Ayodhya to celebrate Bhagwan Ram’s return, bring light to others’ lives in meaningful ways.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s unwavering commitment to the happiness and well-being of others allowed his flame to burn brightly throughout his lifetime, inspiring millions. By following his example, one realizes that by giving, we lose nothing—in fact, we gain more than we ever imagined. Mahant Swami Maharaj reinforces this message, reminding us that the greatest fulfillment comes from living selflessly and lifting others up, just as the people of Ayodhya lifted their lamps to welcome Bhagwan Ram home.
As Diwali approaches, the diyas lit in homes across the world will not only commemmorate Bhagwan Ram's return but also serve as a reminder to carry the festival’s light beyond the celebrations. By focusing on the joy and well-being of others, individuals can sustain the spirit of Diwali throughout the entire year, making every day a chance to light someone else’s candle. In this way, the festival’s true meaning can be lived and experienced long after the final diya is extinguished.
This Diwali, may we all be inspired to light the path for others and discover the boundless joy that comes from living selflessly.
The author is a member of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and a fintech business consultant from Dallas, TX.
(The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of New India Abroad.)
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