Udupi Bishop Gerald Lobo extends Diwali Greetings
Udupi: Udupi Catholic Diocese Bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo on Tuesday extended Diwali greetings to the people of the district, hoping that the Festival of lights will foster fraternity and unity among all the people.
A press release issued by the bishop’s house stated that “Diwali guides us from darkness towards light. On this occasion, let us spread and share our happiness with the less fortunate”.
Indian culture celebrates many festivals. It has contributed significantly in fostering cultural bonds among the people of different communities in the society. We celebrate festivals with pomp and gaiety without knowing the background, thereby focusing on glamour disregarding the significance of real cultural celebrations.
Deepavali signifies the cluster of lamps that we light in our homes and share the joy and happiness among each other. The light that is shared with others brings happiness. As per the Sanskrit phrase, ‘Tamasoma Jyotirgamaya’ light takes us to knowledge from ignorance. It is essential we get rid of impurities from our conscience by lighting the lamp and sharing it with others, that sacred light is the true celebration of Deepavali, where knowledge thrives, fosters brotherhood with purity of heart and mind, love for fellowmen.
If we celebrate the festivals knowing their background, we would be able to celebrate it meaningfully and bring joy and happiness in our families. Deepavali brings good fortune to families. The light is the symbol of knowledge that is essential to shun ignorance. As per the Sanskrit phrase: ‘Nahi Jnanena Sadrasham’ – there lies nothing equivalent to knowledge. ‘Jnana Na Pashu’ – unknowledgeable person is equal to an animal. The true meaning of Deepavali lies in shunning the ignorance by embracing the light.
Deepavali celebration becomes meaningful by shunning evil by cleansing our inner self to experience divine bliss. Let us share the light with each other to live in peace and harmony, he said.