Diwali Celebration
It is that time in the year when Indians celebrate Diwali – this year Diwali is celebrated on Saturday 17 October 2009.   A celebration of Diwali is a significant festival in the eastern religions such as Hinduism, Sikhism and Jainism .   Adherents of these religions celebrate Diwali as the Festival of Lights. During Diwali, lights and fireworks brighten the skies.
In India and Nepal, Diwali is a national festival and the aesthetic aspect of the festival is enjoyed by most Indians and Nepalese regardless of faith.  
Diwali has a central message – “good” always wins over “evil” – against all odds but which may require focus and perseverance. From darkness unto light ”” the light that empowers us to commit ourselves to good deeds, that which brings us closer to divinity.
These days, Diwali is celebrated all over the world since the world has become more multi-cultural and is more tolerant of different faiths.
We in Canada celebrate the Diwali festival with gusto in large cities but even in small places like Deep River (and surrounding areas) , there is celebration with annual party during which the celebrants participate in plays, singing and floor dancing along with traditional dinner.  
When we celebrate Diwali in Canada, it symbolises the genuine Indian Culture and it is also a symbol for   ” Unity In Diversity ” in action when all peoples join hands to celebrate the victory of Good over the Evil.
Diwali is a thread which binds a diverse community in togetherness and is increasingly becoming a vehicle for investing in mutual progress with respect for all.
In Canada,   the   celebration of Diwali provides us (those from the Indian Sub-Continent) an opportunity to showcase,   to the society-at-large,   our common Indian Culture and our values of tolerance and respect for all.  
We wish the best for everyone.  Happy Diwali to all.
Pravin Shah