In Malaysia, Deepavali is the most widely observed festival among Hindus, who make up around 5.8% of the country’s population. Though 40.4% of the people are Muslims and Islam, Malaysia is a multireligious culture that observes Deepavali with the same enthusiasm as India. Every community and race in Malaysia participates in this lovely festival of lights, illuminating one another’s houses and lives.
The history of why Deepavali is celebrated
Since Tamils make up most of Malaysia’s Hindu population, Deepavali is celebrated following south Indian tradition. It commemorates the day that Lord Krishna overthrew and murdered the oppressive ruler Narakasura. On the other hand, the North Indians celebrate the homecoming of Lord Ram after a 14-year exile in the jungles for five days. The Jains mark the anniversary of Mahavir achieving Moksha. Meanwhile, the Sikhs remember this day as the release of Guru Hargobind, from prison. Lastly, the Buddhists recognize it as the anniversary of Emperor Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism.
Deepavali is the Festival of Light
Deepavali celebrates the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. The term “rows of lit lights” is made out of the two words “Deepa,” which means “lamp,” and “vali,” which means “lines.” This celebration is associated with lamps that symbolize the triumph of the forces of light over the powers of darkness. Besides, it serves as a reminder to always be kind and respectful of others.
4 main traditions during Deepavali
Squeaky Clean Homes
The festival of lights starts from one’s house, just as happiness begins with oneself. The Hindus form spring-cleaning homes nice and tidy around a week before Deepavali. Then, they illuminate every crevice using lit oil lamps or diyas, usually on the balconies and doorways. Rangoli or Kolam, a floor decoration consisting of coloured rice flour and raw grains that serves primarily as food for ants and other insects, is also used to embellish the entrances of the houses. This Kolam is symbolic and has social significance. It serves as a friendly greeting for Ma Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, who is thought to pay them a visit on this blessed day.
Cleansing bodies
Cleaning one’s home and self are equivalent, which has a cultural connotation. Early morning oil baths are a custom associated with Deepavali that symbolises cleansing the body of all impurities and evil. Herbs like Shikakai or Reetha are used in a mixture with coconut or sesame oil, and it is thought to refresh and cleanse the body and provide success and money to the individual applying it. Following this procedure, people wear traditional Indian clothing, jewellery, and other trinkets. They then pray to Goddess Lakshmi at home with their families and ask their parents and grandparents for blessings.
Feast of the sweets
Feasting is the most fun part of Deepavali in Malaysia. Usually, Indians come together to make traditional Indian sweets and snacks such as Murukku, achu murukku, jalebi, laddu, and many other Indian cakes and sweets. It is also distributed and shared among their circle of people, friends and family no matter their race.
Shopping, gifts, and visits!
Most families spend this time of year making new purchases and giving gifts in keeping with the Deepavali spirit. A month prior, they begin a shopping extravaganza in which they purchase jewellery, home decor, traditional clothing, puja supplies, and other spices. Gifts are also purchased, wrapped, and stored in readiness for distribution on the eve of Diwali.
Deepavali in Malaysia is a time for family get-togethers and reunions, much like any other holiday. Many homes open their doors to welcome visitors and invite them to start a conversation. In the Hindu community, giving and receiving presents treats, and refreshments is customary. Some people might also pay visits to others to share a meal and spend quality time celebrating the start of a new year.
Despite being a country of diverse ethnicities and cultures, it has always been a great experience getting to share and celebrate various religious celebrations and holidays together. Malaysia is a growing country that’s continuously populating and Be Smarts look forward to moulding your little one with our celebrations in our school to raise them to respect and enjoy celebrations around them.
🎇 Be Smarts wishes everyone Happy Deepavali🎆