Diwali festival on October 23

We are going to celebrate the Diwali festival on October 23 from 6 pm to 9 pm in Warburton Interfaith Ashram. This is a very famous Indian feast dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, which is associated with the history of the Ramayana (Hindu epic): when God Rama defeated the demon Ravana and returned to his town Ayodhya along with Goddess Sita, people welcomed them with lights. Hence, this festival is called as the festival of lights (dipa), it symbolizes the light that dissipates all the negative forces and bring spiritual benefit to everyone. 

People in different parts of India celebrate it in different ways, sometimes it lasts five days or more. This feast is important for those who worship Lord Vishnu, as well as for Shaivas, Shaktas and others. 

Yogi Matsyendranath Maharaj will perform puja dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and small satsang where will be discussed the stories associated with Rama, and how different Hindu deities are related to this celebration. 

Suggested donation for salary owners: paper; for concession card holder (pensioners, students etc.): gold coin 

Participants also welcoming to bring a small amount of fruit for the offering during the ceremony and take them back as a Prasad (the grace after a worship).