Lord Rama’s homecoming to a brilliantly diya illuminated Ayodhya -his kingdom and home - after 14 years in exile and defeating Ravana, seen as, “a victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance," resulted in the day being celebrated as the Hindus festival of Diwali. Hindus revere Lord Rama as, Maryada Purshottam – ‘the man who is supreme in honour’; ‘the best man who practiced righteousness until he perfected it.’

Diwali is for Hindus what X’Mas is for Christians & EID for Muslims – a time of festivities – no doubt – but more a time of reunion with family, a return to one’s home – a time to be together with those closest to our hearts, whom we love unconditionally, who are our reason for living.   People plan, look forward to coming home, travelling from afar just to spend these very special – almost sacred moments - with loved ones. Diwali gifts are a reflection of our affection, care and concern.

So today is also a time for introspection for each one of us, to look within and ascertain if we have conquered the greed, violence, injustice, darkness and negativity within and resolve to replace the latter with self-control, nonviolence, justice light and positivity.  

Dear Signatories, this Diwali, let us remember our common humanity and commit ourselves to a Gandhian Nonviolent World order, which is beyond violence and war. Let our inner peace be reflected in finding nonviolent resolutions to conflict in our lives and in the world.

As part of your resolve, we request you to follow our Call for Action #’s, by initiating a Candle-light Event at the venue of your choice,  protesting the daily death of 18,000 children world-wide (UNICEF) and, endorsing #no. 6 #Save18KChildrenDyingDaily. Do post your experience on your social media handles and tag Shanti Sahyog – a Gandhian NGO and Shanti Sahyog Centre for Peace & Conflict Resolution, India (SS CPCR)using the above hashtag.

Also consider illuminating an underprivileged family’s home by donating for them through https://shantisahyog.org/make-a-donation/