Diwali lights up SA with joy and reflection

PITHAI BATHS AND

- DR LOKESH RAMNATH MAHARAJH

ON DIWALI, homes, temples and communities across South Africa will glow with the warmth and brilliance of the Festival of Lights.

From Chatsworth and Phoenix in Durban to Lenasia in Johannesburg, and Rylands in Cape Town, families mark this auspicious occasion with devotion, joy and togetherness.

The morning begins with ritual baths and prayers, followed by offerings to Goddess Lakshmi, as families seek blessings of prosperity and harmony.

Across South Africa, Hindu temples will be filled with worshippers dressed in traditional attire, their voices resonating in chants of devotion.

Doorways will be decorated with rangoli patterns of vivid colours, while lamps will be placed at entrances to invite blessings and to symbolise light triumphing over darkness. Markets and shopping centres will be bustling as people purchase sweets, new clothing and festive items.