Sunday, November 06, 2005

Diwali Festival of lights

Could these two (decorations on the wall of the Convention centre) be Lord Rama and his wife Sita?

November 5th, Grand Hilton Seoul, The Convention Hall.
At this fab event we were rubbing shoulders with Seoul's rich and privileged as they celebrated the biggest Indian festival Diwali.
What is Diwali? It's a Hindu holiday celebrated in the Hindu month of Ashwin (our November/October). The holiday commemorated different events across different regions of India, but it has to do with King Rama's coronation after he defeated Ravana, the demon king. Rows of lamps were lit across India to welcome Rama and his wife Sita after theri 14 year exile. Dipawali or Diwali means 'rows of lamps.' It is considered auspicious to exchange gifts made from metal, silver or gold, of course. Diwali is celebrated for four days. People have parties, exchange gifts, wear new clothes, and are generally involved in frenzied shopping for gifts and eating (sounds like Christmas:parties, lights, food, gifts - people are same across the globe!).
Debbie organized this event for us. When we arrived to the hotel, we were bedazzled by shiny silky saris worn by many Indian as well as Western women there. The food was excelent, but I ate too much making myself ill in the process. The dances were interesting and lively, the decorated hall very festive. .. It was an overall interesting experience and certainly a chance to see amazingly beautiful saris and jewelry.

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