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Udupi : ‘Instead of cursing the darkness, light a lamp,’ is the old-adage. The injustice, ignorance, unrighteousness, death are the evils of darkness. Therefore, the verse of Upanishad, ‘Asatoma Sadgamaya, Tamasoma Jyotirgamaya, Mrutyorma Amrutam Gamaya, is the most appropriate prayer. It is mankind’s prayer to God, in order to lead from untruth to truth, darkness to light and death to eternity. 

As per the song, Let there be light in every home, shine in every mind, shine the light of knowledge; Deepavali, the festival of light shuns the darkness in families and their minds. It signifies the importance of light and eternity to mankind. The light has power to spread the light to others. It’s the festival of light to light the lamps, in order to spread peace, love and happiness to fellowmen.  

It’s the harvest season for the farmer, to bring home the paddy from his farmland with joy and happiness. It’s the ideal occasion to celebrate Deepavali, when the nature is enveloped with lush greenery after monsoon season.  

The temples and homes were decorated and illuminated for many days to celebrate Deepavali. It’s the belief that wherever the lights shine in homes, the family will be blessed with health, wealth and happiness; thereby shunning the miseries and evil spirits with the hope of ever shining light to lead righteousness.

The worldly passions engulf the mankind into bondage of sins. He acts like an animal in lust for self gratification. He is so immersed in lust that he loses his conscience on evil acts. The celebration of Deepavali enkindles his conscience and repentance. The cleansing of mind and body are virtues of the celebrations. 

Let us hope that we fill our lamp with purity of thoughts, light the wick of love, pour the oil of love, light the lamp with righteousness, to share the brightness of light with fellowmen for eternity.

Best Deepavali wishes to all my brethrens.

Bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo

Udupi