Deepavali was celebrated at Shanthi Mandir on Saturday, Nov. 17, 2012. Deepavali, or Diwali, also called the festival of lights, is celebrated throughout India, and is possibly the best known Indian holiday. According to the Indian lunar calendar, Diwali a five day festival, starting on the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna paksha (dark fortnight) in the month of Ashwin and ending on the second lunar day of Shukla paksha (bright fortnight) of Kartik.
The program at Shanthi Mandir began with lamp lighting and Lakshmi Puja 6:30 pm, followed by group and individual bhajans, short descriptions of the significance of Diwali, Aarthi, fireworks in the parking lot (sparklers only for children and adults alike!) and prasad. About 70 people attended the function, including several attendees who were new to Columbia or had come to the temple for the first time. Welcome to our community!
HAPPY DEEPAVALI!
