This weekend’s Diwali festival in Chino Hills will shine a light on unity, service and faith – Daily Bulletin

About 20,000 Southern Californians are expected to celebrate. Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, this weekend at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Los Angeles in Chino Hills.

Free community Diwali festival begins on Friday, November 1st and continues with religious holidays and holidays until Sunday, November 3rd.

Diwali celebrated annually every autumn, usually in October or November, by representatives of Hinduism, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists and other faiths.

“Everyone has their own unique way of celebrating and memorializing the festival,” said volunteer Mahul Patel. “It brings people of all faiths and backgrounds together.”

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Visitors pose for a family photo during Diwali celebrations at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Los Angeles in Chino Hills on Saturday, November 11, 2023. (File photo: Watchara Phomicinda, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)

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The lights that are often seen during the Diwali festival represent symbol of dispelling darkness over light“good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, renewal and rejuvenation,” Patel said. The theme of this year’s celebration is community and hope.

Diwali also comes days before Election Day on November 5, which Patel called “ironic but wonderful” during a disputed election.

“This important moment for our country as we grapple with social issues such as inequality, mental health crises and environmental change. The teachings of Diwali are more relevant than ever.”

free weekend event also encourages community service and donations. Participants can make care packages for the homeless, participate in a bone marrow and stem cell registry, or participate in a holiday food drive. There will be a Medicare registration desk and children’s activity zone and carnival. New to this year’s event is a theatrical production by young members of the temple.

The information kiosks will help explain Diwali customs to visitors who are invited to the mandir, Patel said.

Other traditions of the Diwali festival include henna and mehndi stalls, lighting of diyas or oil lamps, mandala art and rangoli, and cultural events. speeches.

Starting Friday, a three-day Western Hindu tradition Annakut – when vegetarian foods are displayed in front of sacred images as a religious offering – will also be heard in the Hindu New Year.

Friday to Sunday evening spectacular Light and sound shows in the Mandir will take place every 30 minutes.starting from 18:30 to 20:00.

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is located at 15100 Fairfield Ranch Rd. in Chino Hills. Admission is free, and tickets for carnival rides and food can be purchased.

For more information visit bapsladiwali.org/festival.