Religious Festivals

This weekend brings about important festivals for three main religions.

Today, Hindus and Sikhs celebrate the festival of Divali. Tomorrow, Muslims celebrate Eid.

For Hindus, Diwali is the festival of light and is seen as the start of the new year.

For Sikhs, Diwali is celebrated to remember the release from prison of the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind. It is believed that upon his release in 1620, the Golden Temple in Amristsar was illuminated and this tradition is still alive today.

For Muslims, Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramazan, a month through which Muslims fast and give alms to the poor.

In recent years, there has been a great tension between these three communities.

Since India gained Independence from the British Empire and Pakistan was consequently formed, these three communities have fought on and disputed many issues, specifically in regards to the region of Kashmir.

However, with all three communities celebrating religious festivals, all will be united in this front.

A key characteristic of an advanced society is the ability to allow different religions to be practiced with freedom and in peace. A key characteristic of an intelligent person is the ability to value and appreciate other religions and people who practice other religions. This weekend is a perfect opportunity for us to practice this.