Shubh Diwali

Baiganee | Kuchorie | Pholourie
Mango Chutney | Pommecythere Chutney

Shubh Diwali/Divali/Deepavali to the Hindu Community! While I can't claim to be a very devoted Hindu or anything resembling it, Divali is part of our culture in Trinidad and Tobago, and if you're anything remotely close to a Hindu, it's a reason to celebrate. Even if you aren't, visiting friends and indulging in curry, roti and sweets is a must!

Deya

Diwali is known as the Festival of Lights - thousands of deyas are lit nationwide in celebration and to illuminate what is known as "the darkest night" (of the year). There are many stories that have been told of the origin of Diwali.

On the first evening of Divali, many Hindus will light a single lamp, a diva (deya), and place it in front of the house. The second day of Divali is called Narak Chaturdashi. This day celebrates the victory of the god Krishna over the demon Narakasur. - Dilip Kadodwala ( in "Divali")

Laskmi Mata

In preparation for Diwali, Hindus are required to thoroughly clean their homes in order to welcome the goddess, Mother Lakshmi. It is the most widely celebrated Hindu festival in Trinidad and Tobago. For weeks leading up to the festival, Hindus also abstain from meat, alcohol and sometimes salt. 

On the day of Diwali, Hindu's homes' are filled with the aroma of traditional and local East Indian dishes, sweets - particularly parsad - and the smell of burning ghee as Diwali pujas are conducted. Trinis love holidays for the good food more than anything else, I think.

Parsad, Barfi, Kurma

Ladoo

Sweets parceled to be shared!