Happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas - join the celebrations

This week marks the celebration of two significant festivals observed by millions around the world: Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas. Both festivals share themes of light, liberation, and spiritual triumph, and are celebrated with joy, reflection, and community gatherings.

Enjoy Langar at the Chaplaincy, then Pooja in the courtyard on Tuesday 21st, followed by a festive celebration with food and dance on Thursday 23rd October at the SU.

Diwali – The Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and across the global Hindu, Jain, and Sikh communities. It symbolises the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

In Hindu tradition, Diwali commemorates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. For Jains, it marks Lord Mahavira’s attainment of nirvana. Sikhs also celebrate Diwali, particularly in connection with the story of Bandi Chhor Divas.

Celebrations typically include lighting oil lamps (diyas) and candles, fireworks and festive decorations, sharing sweets and gifts, prayers and rituals at temples and homes. 

 This year, Diwali will be celebrated on Monday 20 October.

Bandi Chhor Divas -The Day of Liberation

Bandi Chhor Divas is a Sikh festival that commemorates the release of Sri Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, from imprisonment in Gwalior Fort in 1619. He secured the freedom of 52 fellow princes who were unjustly detained alongside him.

The day is celebrated with Illuminating homes and Gurdwaras (Sikh temples), singing hymns and offering prayers, and acts of service and community meals (Langar).

This year Bandi Chhor Divas will be celebrated on Tuesday 21 October.

 Chaplaincy Events on Campus

To mark these festivals, the University's multi-faith Chaplaincy is hosting two special events:

Bandi Chhor Divas Langar

• Tuesday 21 October at midday
• The Chaplaincy, City Campus

Enjoy a free, simple lunch prepared and served as an act of charitable service in the Sikh tradition. Head coverings are required but will be supplied if needed. Seating will primarily be on the floor, but a small number of chairs will be available for those who need them. Volunteers welcomed! (Booking is not required, but please be aware that space within the Chaplaincy is limited and there may be a wait.)

 Diwali Celebration with Pooja

• Tuesday 21 October from 5.30pm
• Courtyard, City Campus

Join us for a spiritual and cultural celebration of Diwali with traditional prayer, sweets and kulfi will be shared.

For more information, email: chaplaincy@wlv.ac.uk |  Visit: chaplaincy@wlv.ac.uk | Follow: facebook.com/wlvchaplaincy

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