Diwali

A symbol of Surya (Sun) and Agni (fire), the lamp plays a very important role in  life in India. It is an essential form of worship believed to carry one’s prayer to God and indeed represents the force itself. At every stage of life therefore, lamps are lit to celebrate eternal life force. Indian philosophy calls the soul a self-lighted torch. The flame of the lamp is likened to the Supreme Self.

Lamps have evolved over centuries in India. Sea-shells, clay, wood and metals were discovered, carved, crafted and molded into the torch bearers of Indian craftsmanship. From simple to ornate, these lamps have graced many a temple, palace and home. Their shapes are varied just as their sizes differ in accordance with their purpose. In few other countries could there be a wealth of imagery and symbolism built around the lamp.

This Festival of Lights attempts to present in large strokes the lamps used in different eras, traditions and regions of India. It is in the fascinating variety of lamps that we see the art of the creative craftsmanship from the past to the present. Here we present eleven different types of lamps and many of them are recreated from ancient designs. In the ensuing years, as this program continues to evolve we hope to have a larger collection of  lamps each year. One thousand and eight small lamps, similar to the ones used in India, will be lit.

This ode to the Sun is conceived by San Diego Indian American Society and presented to you  by San Diego Indian American Society, Mingei International Museum, San Diego Museum of Art and Committee for Arts of Indian Subcontinent, India associations, and Museum of Man.

This annual festival depicts victory of virtue over vice. Indian epics portray this concept in many ways and the festival celebrates these victories.

We present different cultural traditions of India through the prism of different states. Each state will have a specific space along El Prado. People originally from these states will share their cultural traditions from 4.00PM to around 5.30PM. A cultural performance drawn from various states of India will be presented on the stage in Organ Pavilion from 6.00 to 7.30PM. Following that, there will be a controlled participatory folk dance for about 20 minutes.

The important aspect of lamp lighting will take place around 6.15PM in Organ Pavilion.

Those who buy nominally priced tickets will also gain admission to SDMA, Mingei and Museum of Man from 4.00PM to 7.00PM.

This celebration will be a memorable one.