The Voorhees Cultural and Diversity Club participated in a Diwali celebration on Oct. 26 organized by Dr. Jatin Mehta at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, a Cherry Hill temple.
The event showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Hindu festival of lights and attracted attendees from the community eager to learn and participate in Diwali. Club members in attendance included chair Stephanie Fisher and member Allison Weil.
Diwali is celebrated by millions around the world. It spans five to six days and symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
“The significance of Diwali in Hinduism is profound,” Weil explained. “It’s not just a festival; it is a time for reflection, family and community. The event aimed to create an inclusive atmosphere where people could understand the deeper meanings behind the customs and traditions associated with Diwali.”
To ensure an authentic representation of the festival’s diverse cultural aspects, club members engaged in various activities throughout the celebration.
“We began with a guided tour of the temple, where we learned about the history and significance of the festival through a special video presentation,” Fisher explained. “We also listened to speakers, participated in prayers and reviewed exhibits that showcased the beauty of Diwali. Sampling the traditional food was a delightful way to immerse ourselves in the experience.”
The local community played a vital role in the event’s organization and participation, according to Weil.
“The community was incredibly hospitable,” she remarked. “They encouraged everyone to attend and made us feel welcome. This level of engagement helped create a warm and inviting environment for all attendees.”
“The atmosphere was truly welcoming,” Fisher noted. “From the moment we arrived, it felt like a family gathering. The lighting of diyas (lamps), prayers and joyful dances created an unforgettable ambiance that resonated with everyone present.”
Feedback from Diwali celebration attendees included some guests who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn about the festival and its traditions.
“Everyone was engaging, asking questions and sharing their own experiences,” Weil recalled. “It was heartwarming to witness such enthusiasm and interest in understanding our cultural heritage.”
The Cultural and Diversity Club’s commitment to promoting cultural understanding was evident at the celebration, Weil noted.
“We attend various cultural events throughout the year to foster awareness and appreciation of different cultures,” she pointed out. “This helps us share our experiences and insights with others, promoting a deeper understanding of our diverse community.”
The club is looking ahead to future celebrations that will build on the success of Diwali.
“We are planning to visit various other temples in Robbinsville to continue our journey of cultural exploration,” Fisher said. “Each event provides us with opportunities to learn and grow, and we look forward to sharing these experiences with our community.”
For Fisher, the personal experience of participating in and organizing the Diwali celebration was transformative.
“This was quite a learning experience for both Allison and I,” Fisher reflected. “It was a time to pause and reflect on the values of hope, love and unity that Diwali represents. We were treated like royalty upon entering the temple, receiving a wreath made of real carnation flowers and a bracelet symbolizing love, faith and caring.
“This event helps us understand cultural differences and appreciate our unique backgrounds,” she added. “We walked away with a clear understanding that, despite our differences, we are all very similar at our core.”
