Extended family gathers at this lively festival to pray and rejoice. Week 4 Quartern |
Diwali or Deepavali is the festival to celebrate the Triumph of Good over Evil, achieved by Lord Ram's defeat of the Demon Ravana. The festival celebrates his triumphant return to Ayodhya. The traditional lamps are lit both in welcome and to symbolise good. The decorations include intricate designs drawn on the path with rice flour and colours, known as Rangoli or Kolam. People gather in elaborate prayer. They also exchange greetings and sweets, wishing each other prosperity in the coming days.There are special days in Prayer to the Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi;to celebrate slaying of the demon Narakusura or to rejoice in Brother-sister bonds. Week 4 Quartern, 8 syllables per line, refrain in 1st line of 1st stanza, 2nd line of 2nd stanza and so on. Written about a family event that made a great impact; using all five senses in the poem. In fact I feel the sixth sense or emotion is here too! Festival of lights, Good triumphs Time of joy and celebration Intricate designs invite guests Embracing all, greeting the new. Staccato crackers explode cheer Festival of lights, Good triumphs Lamps flicker bright benign welcome Traditional instruments thrum. Incense burns as chants sound in beat Prayers raised thank evil’s defeat Festival of lights, Good triumphs Musically assembled praise. Offerings mirror life’s fortunes Redolent with spice, tasty treats, Sweets exchanged denote good wishes, Festival of lights, Good triumphs. |