Hillol Ray: Diwali: The Festival of Lights

Hillol Ray

DIWALI: THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

At the turn of the Indian New Year,
The special festival “Diwali” is here –
So we are proud to celebrate with Americans today
And are pleased to share!
Our customs and traditions are century old,
But they have built a profound name –
Around the world, where our traditions are still found,
Buried well behind the fame!

“Diwali”, the festival of lights, illuminates
The darkness of the New Year’s moon –
And strengthens our close friendships and knowledge
With a self-realization soon!
So the “Diwali” day of Indians is a big celebration
To respect the sacred time –
And reminds our heritage in America,
While echoed through the winds’ chime!

This adopted land of ours has been built
By the sweat and toil –
Of many, many immigrants, past and present,
On this blessed soil!
Here we feel the values of freedom,
Voice and assurance as well –
That America is the “Place”
Where our future is going to dwell!

So, let’s rejuvenate our diversity today,
Because we are too happy to tell –
About the real joy of a big celebration
That is now ringing the bell!
And let us all hope, the pride of our “Diwali” festival,
Although was born in the past –
Will illuminate the stars on our Nation’s flag,
To signify harmony, and surely it will last!!

Author’s Note: The Indian religious festival “DIWALI – The Festival of Lights” is on November this year, and it’s being celebrated in USA and other countries with grandeur. I have written a poem on “DIWALI – The Festival of Lights” and it has been included in a children’s book (from New York) by Deborah Heiligman. It has brought me a flurry of emails with appreciations.

More information about this celebration and the book is located at
Celebrate Diwali with Deborah Heiligman