AWDC celebrates Diwali

The Antwerp diamond industry is a melting pot of different cultures, nationalities and religions. We may be very different but the strength and uniqueness of our community lies in our diversity. To bring the communities even closer together, AWDC celebrates a few traditional holidays every year. On Monday November 4th, AWDC organizes its fourth community event of this year: Diwali.

Diwali, derived from Sanskrit Dipavali meaning ‘a row of lights’ is popularly known as the “festival of lights,” and celebrated between mid-October and mid-December for different reasons. For Hindus, Diwali is one of the most important festivals of the year and is celebrated in families by performing traditional activities together in their homes. For Jains, Diwali marks the attainment of moksha or nirvana by Mahavira in 527 BC.

Diwali involves the lighting of small clay lamps filled with oil to signify the triumph of good over evil. These lamps are kept on during the night and people traditionally clean their houses, both done in order to make the goddess Lakshmi feel welcome. Firecrackers are burst in order to drive away evil spirits. During Diwali, all the celebrants wear new clothes and share sweets and snacks with family members and friends. 

Come and enjoy some typical Indian food in front of the AWDC building, we start around noon.

See you there!