The Inner Lamp: Deepavali’s Philosophy of Peace in a World of Conflict and Belligerence

TRANSCEND MEMBERS, 20 Oct 2025

Prof Hoosen Vawda – TRANSCEND Media Service

This publication is suitable for general readership. Parental guidance is recommended for minors, who may use this paper, as a resource material, for projects.

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The author, a Muslim, unconditionally apologises for any misrepresentations or misconceptions expressed about Hindu religious beliefs and cultural practices, as stated in this publication.  The paper is based on the author’s extensive research, appended with online references, as well as discourse with my interfaith associates, in good faith.  If any reader finds any statements recorded, as objectionable, you are kindly invited to correspond with the author, by the listed e-mail or global voice contact.

“Lighting the Way: Deepavali and the Pursuit of Global Peace is the inescapable Victory of Light Over Darkness, Good over Evil: Deepavali’s Narrative is a Shared Human Aspiration for Sustained Global Peace “ [1]

 Prologue

Each year, as the moon wanes and the night sky deepens, reaching Amavasya[2] millions across the globe kindle lamps in celebration of Deepavali, the Hindu Festival of Lights. Rooted in ancient Indian traditions, Deepavali transcends its mythological origins to become a universal symbol of hope, renewal, and the triumph of good over evil. It is more than a cultural observance, it is a moral compass, guiding humanity through the shadows of injustice, conflict, global belligerence and despair.

In a world increasingly fractured by war, inequality, and ecological crisis, the luminous message of Deepavali offers a timely reminder: light dispels darkness not by force, but by presence. The story of Prince Rama’s[3] return to Ayodhya[4], the resilience of Sita Devi[5], and the vanquishing of Ravana[6] are not merely tales of antiquity, they are allegories for the inner and outer battles we face today.

The author has written about Deepavali in 2021,[7] this article explores Deepavali not only as a sacred Hindu celebration, but as a global metaphor for peacebuilding[8],[9] ethical living, and spiritual awakening. By drawing parallels with other traditions that celebrate light, Hanukkah[10], Christmas[11], Vesak[12], Ramadan[13], we seek to illuminate a shared human yearning: to overcome ignorance with wisdom, hatred with compassion, and despair with hope. Let us journey through the flames of tradition, philosophy, and interfaith harmony to rediscover Deepavali as a radiant call to global unity and moral courage.[14]

Before the first diya[15] is lit, before the echoes of mantras fill the air, there is a silence. In that silence rests an ancient truth, known to the sages who founded this festival of lights: peace is not a treaty signed between nations, but a light kindled within a human heart. Yet, a question arises from the very legend that Deepavali celebrates, the epic war of the Ramayana[16]. How can a narrative culminating in the annihilation of a king be a parable for peace?

The answer lies in a transformative shift of the battlefield. The war between Lord Rama and the devout but ego-bound King Ravana is not a historical account of territorial conquest. It is the eternal, internal war waged within the human psyche. In this allegorical reading, Rama is the pure Self (Atman); Sita, the discerning intellect (Buddhi) held captive; and Ravana, the formidable ego (Ahamkara), whose ten heads signify his tyrannical mastery over the senses. His annihilation is not a physical death but the necessary, decisive dissolution of the separatist ‘I’ that creates all conflict. The victory celebrated is the reunion of the Self with its own innate wisdom, restoring inner dharma. This paper is an invitation to read Deepavali not just as a cultural event, but as a profound manual for global peace, written in the universal language of light. It begins with a single, flickering flame, and the courage to conquer the world within.

Introduction

In an era defined by geopolitical strife, ideological polarisation, and environmental crises, the quest for sustainable global peace remains one of humanity’s most elusive yet urgent goals. Traditional political and diplomatic approaches, while necessary, often address only the symptoms of conflict, leaving the root causes, fear, hatred, and a sense of separation, largely untouched. This paper argues that the Hindu festival of Deepavali offers a transformative, philosophical framework for understanding and cultivating peace, one that is rooted in the principle of inner transformation as the prerequisite for external harmony.

Deepavali, derived from the Sanskrit Dīpāvali[17] meaning “a row of lights,” is commonly associated with the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. However, a deeper exegesis of its legends, rituals, and symbology reveals a multi-layered pedagogy for peace. This study will explore the allegorical significance of its central narratives, the peace-building psychology embedded in its practices, and the potential for its core message to contribute to a more holistic, introspective, and sustainable model of global coexistence. We will posit that by “conquering the Narakasura within”, the inner demons of prejudice, greed, and violence, humanity can illuminate the path toward a more peaceful world, one enlightened individual at a time.

The Ramayana as a Peace Narrative[18]

At the heart of Deepavali lies the epic narrative of the Ramayana, a spiritual and moral compass that has guided generations across South Asia and beyond. Far from being a mere chronicle of divine heroism, the Ramayana is a profound peace narrative, illustrating the eternal struggle between righteousness and tyranny, compassion and cruelty, truth and deception.

Prince Rama, the embodiment of Dharma[19] (moral duty), does not seek power for its own sake. His exile, undertaken without protest, reflects a commitment to honour and filial piety[20], values that resonate with peacebuilders who sacrifice personal comfort for the greater good. His journey through forests and kingdoms is not a conquest, but a pilgrimage of ethical leadership, where alliances are forged not through domination, but through mutual respect and shared purpose.

Sita Devi, often overshadowed in popular retellings, emerges as a symbol of inner strength and moral clarity. Her abduction by Ravana and subsequent ordeal in Lanka[21] are not just acts of violence, they are metaphors for the violation of dignity, autonomy, and truth. Yet Sita does not succumb to despair. Her unwavering faith and final act of self-liberation, choosing to return to Mother Earth rather than be judged by patriarchal norms, echo the voices of women across the world who reclaim their agency in the face of oppression.

Ravana, the antagonist, is not a caricature of evil but a complex figure whose brilliance is undone by his inflated ego, desire, and moral blindness. His downfall is a cautionary tale: that intelligence without empathy, power without restraint, and ambition without ethics lead to ruin. In this way, the Ramayana teaches that peace is not merely the absence of war, but the presence of virtue, humility, and justice.

As Rama returns to Ayodhya and the city is lit with lamps, the celebration is not just of victory, it is of restoration, of the return of balance, and of the reaffirmation of values that sustain peaceful coexistence. Deepavali thus becomes a ritual of remembrance, reminding us that the light of peace must be kindled within each heart, and guarded against the shadows of greed, hatred, and ignorance.

 

The Allegorical Battlefield:[22] From an Epic Conflict to Inner Peace

The central narratives of Deepavali are not mere stories; they are coded spiritual instruction. The return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya symbolizes the restoration of dharma (cosmic order and righteousness) after a period of adharma (disorder). This return was only possible after the conquest of Ravana, a demon-king whose ten heads represent the ten impediments to inner peace: Kama (lust), Krodha (anger), Moha (delusion), Lobha (greed), Mada (pride), Matsarya (jealousy), Manas (the mind), Buddhi (intellect), Chitta (will), and Ahamkara (ego). Similarly, the slaying of Narakasura by Lord Krishna represents the victory over the oppressive forces of materialism, hedonism, and ignorance that confine the soul (the “citizens” of the story). These allegories teach that external conflict is a manifestation of unresolved internal turmoil. Lasting peace, therefore, must begin with self-mastery.

The Rituals of Illumination: Cultivating the Soil for Peace

The rituals of Deepavali are a carefully orchestrated curriculum for inner cleansing. The thorough cleaning and decoration of homes (shringar) is not just a physical act but a symbol of the saucha (purity) required for a peaceful mind, sweeping away the clutter of negative samskaras (mental impressions). The lighting of diyas (oil lamps) represents the dispelling of ignorance by the light of knowledge (jnana). The offering of sweets and gifts (sneha) strengthens the bonds of community and fosters a sense of shared prosperity and goodwill, directly countering the isolation that fuels conflict. The worship of Goddess Lakshmi is not merely a petition for wealth, but a reverence for the divine principle of abundance, sharing, and responsible stewardship of resources, a key antidote to the economic disparities that often underlie war.

A Framework for Global Peace: Translating the Personal to the Planetary

The philosophy of Deepavali provides a scalable model for global peace. If nations were to embody its principles, foreign policy would be guided by dharma—ethical conduct and justice—rather than pure realpolitik. The concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam[23] (the world is one family), inherently celebrated during Deepavali, provides the foundational ethos for international relations, fostering empathy and cooperation over competition and suspicion. Environmental stewardship, reflected in the traditional use of natural clay diyas, aligns with the pressing need for ecological peace, a harmonious relationship with the planet. By framing peace as a collective, introspective practice of “lighting our inner lamps,” Deepavali offers a universal, accessible, and spiritually-grounded path forward.

Deepavali’s Antidote to Contemporary Belligerence[24]

In today’s world, conflict is not merely territorial; it is ideological, psychological, and digital. Deepavali’s philosophy does not ignore this belligerence; it provides a profound, multi-layered antidote by addressing the very roots of conflict.

Contemporary Belligerence	Deepavali’s Antidotal Principle	Expanded Explanation
“Otherization” & Identity Politics	Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World is One Family)	The diya’s light does not discriminate; it illuminates everything it touches without preference. Deepavali rituals are performed in every home, creating a synchronized, universal tapestry of light. This is a direct, experiential rebuttal to divisive ideologies. It teaches that while our individual homes (identities, cultures) are important, we are all part of a single, illuminated reality.
Pervasive Fear & Anxiety	The Symbolism of Conquering Narakasura & Fearlessness (Abhaya)	The primary blessing of the Narakasura legend is Abhaya—fearlessness. Global belligerence is fueled by fear—of the other, of scarcity, of the future. The act of lighting a diya is a defiant act of hope and courage in the face of darkness. It is a tangible practice of replacing fear with the confident, steady light of inner strength.
Materialism & Greed-Driven Conflict	The True Worship of Lakshmi (Spiritual & Shared Prosperity)	The worship of Goddess Lakshmi during Deepavali is often misunderstood as mere materialism. Its deeper meaning is the reverence for Shri—divine, holistic prosperity that includes spiritual wealth, wisdom, and the well-being of the entire community. The tradition of sharing sweets and gifts reinforces that true wealth is to be circulated, not hoarded, directly countering the greed that leads to economic and resource-based wars.
Pollution & Ecological Disregard	Traditional Diyas vs. Firecrackers (Harmony with Nature)	The original, sustainable practice of lighting clay diyas filled with natural ghee or oil is a ritual of harmony with the elements. Re-emphasizing this over polluting firecrackers is a powerful statement. It aligns global peace with ecological peace, asserting that you cannot have one without the other. A war on nature is a war on ourselves.
Digital Echo Chambers & Misinformation (Modern Avidya)	Dispelling Tamas with Jnana (Dispelling Ignorance with Knowledge)	The darkness (Tamas) of our time is not just absence of light, but the presence of misinformation, propaganda, and digital ignorance. Deepavali’s core prayer, “Tamaso Ma Jyotir Gamaya” (Lead me from darkness to light), is a call for critical thinking, discernment, and the pursuit of true knowledge (Jnana) over the Pursuit of true knowleignorance that fuels online hatred and societal division.

In essence, Deepavali reframes the entire concept of “victory.” Contemporary belligerence seeks victory over others. Deepavali teaches that the only true, lasting victory is the victory over one’s own inner chaos, ignorance, and malevolence. A society of self-victorious individuals would be, by its very nature, a peaceful society.

Philosophical Parallels Across Different Faiths[25]

The symbolism of light triumphing over darkness is not unique to Deepavali—it is a universal archetype found across the spiritual traditions of humanity. This shared motif reflects a collective yearning for truth, justice, and peace, transcending cultural boundaries and affirming our common moral heritage.

In Judaism, the festival of Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days. It is a celebration of resilience, divine providence, and the enduring flame of faith in the face of oppression. Like Deepavali, Hanukkah reminds us that even a small light can defy overwhelming darkness.

In Christianity, Christmas heralds the birth of Jesus Christ, often described as the “Light of the World.” The nativity story, with its themes of humility, hope, and divine love, parallels Rama’s return to Ayodhya, both are moments of restoration and spiritual renewal. The lighting of candles and festive illumination during Advent and Christmas echo the Deepavali lamps that guide the soul toward righteousness.

In Islam, the holy month of Ramadan culminates in Eid, a celebration of spiritual purification, charity, and self-restraint. The Quran speaks of Allah as “the Light of the heavens and the earth” (Surah An-Nur 24:35)[26], emphasising divine guidance as a beacon for ethical living. The inner light cultivated through fasting and prayer resonates with the Deepavali ideal of conquering inner demons and embracing virtue.

Buddhism celebrates Vesak, the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha, with lanterns and lights symbolizing the dispelling of ignorance. The Eightfold Path [27]offers a framework for peace through right action, right speech, and right mindfulness, principles that align with the Ramayana’s moral teachings.

Even in African Indigenous traditions, the concept of Ubuntu,[28] “I am because we are”—illuminates the path to peace through community, compassion, and shared humanity. The lighting of fires in ancestral rituals and the invocation of spirits through dance and song reflect a reverence for light as a sacred force of connection and healing.

These philosophical parallels affirm that Deepavali is not merely a Hindu festival—it is a global metaphor for moral awakening, a celebration of the human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity, and a call to rekindle the flame of peace in every corner of the world.

Modern Applications: Rekindling Light in a Troubled World

In today’s world, the symbolic flame of Deepavali burns brighter than ever—not merely in oil lamps and fireworks, but in the hearts of those striving to overcome the shadows of injustice, violence, and despair. The festival’s ancient message of victory of good over evil finds urgent relevance in the face of modern challenges that threaten the moral fabric of society.

1. Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution

Deepavali’s core narrative—restoration after exile, reconciliation after conflict—mirrors the goals of peacebuilding efforts across the globe. Whether in post-war societies, divided communities, or refugee rehabilitation, the principles of truth, justice, and forgiveness embodied by Rama and Sita offer a timeless blueprint for healing and unity.

2. Gender Justice and Dignity

Sita Devi’s story resonates deeply in an era marked by gender-based violence and systemic inequality. Her unwavering dignity, refusal to be objectified, and final act of self-determination challenge patriarchal norms and inspire movements for women’s rights, bodily autonomy, and spiritual equality. Deepavali becomes a moment to honour not just divine light, but the inner light of every woman who resists oppression.

3. Ecological Ethics and Sustainability

The Ramayana’s reverence for nature—forests, rivers, animals, and celestial forces—calls for a renewed commitment to environmental stewardship. In a time of climate crisis, Deepavali can be reimagined as a festival of eco-consciousness, where the lighting of lamps symbolizes not consumption, but conservation, and the triumph of sustainable living over ecological degradation.

4. Mental Health and Inner Peace

The metaphor of light dispelling darkness also speaks to the inner battles faced by individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. Deepavali’s rituals, cleaning homes, lighting lamps, sharing sweets, can be interpreted as acts of psychological renewal, encouraging mindfulness, gratitude, and community support.

5. Digital and Social Harmony

In an age of digital disinformation and social polarization, Deepavali’s message urges us to illuminate truth, dispel ignorance, and bridge divides. The festival can inspire online campaigns for kindness, fact-checking, and respectful dialogue, transforming virtual spaces into arenas of ethical engagement.

A Blueprint for the Peace Propagator: From Concept to Community Action

As peace propagators, the readers are the lamp-bearers. Your role is to translate this philosophy into tangible actions that create ripples of harmony. The author suggests a concrete, actionable blueprint, the readers can adapt and implement.

Global Celebrations and Diaspora Contributions

Deepavali’s luminous spirit has transcended its Indian origins to become a global celebration of light, unity, and cultural resilience. Across continents, the festival is embraced not only by Hindus but also by Jains, Sikhs, Buddhists, and increasingly, by interfaith communities who recognize its universal message of peace and renewal.

South Africa and the African Continent

In South Africa, Deepavali is celebrated with vibrant processions, temple rituals, and community gatherings that reflect the rich tapestry of Indian heritage woven into the nation’s multicultural identity. The festival serves as a bridge between communities, fostering interfaith dialogue and social cohesion. In Durban, Cape Town, and Johannesburg, Deepavali lights illuminate not just homes but hearts, reminding all South Africans of the power of unity in diversity.

United Kingdom and Europe

In cities like London, Leicester, and Amsterdam, Deepavali has become a mainstream cultural event, with public light displays, educational programs, and civic participation. Local governments often support these celebrations as part of multicultural outreach, recognizing the festival’s role in promoting peaceful coexistence and cultural literacy.

North America

In the United States and Canada, Deepavali is celebrated in schools, universities, and public institutions. The Indian diaspora has played a pivotal role in transforming the festival into a platform for cultural diplomacy, showcasing Indian values of nonviolence, hospitality, and ethical living. Increasingly, Deepavali is recognized as a day of reflection and gratitude, aligning with broader themes of thanksgiving and spiritual renewal.

Asia-Pacific and Oceania

In Malaysia, Singapore, Fiji, and Australia, Deepavali is a national holiday, celebrated with temple visits, street fairs, and family reunions. These multicultural societies embrace the festival as a symbol of interethnic harmony, where Tamil, Telugu, Malay, Chinese, and Indigenous communities come together in shared celebration.

Global Peace Networks

International organisations and peace networks have begun to recognize Deepavali as a symbolic occasion for peace advocacy. Candlelight vigils, interfaith prayers, and cultural exhibitions held during Deepavali serve as reminders that the light of peace must be nurtured across borders, especially in times of global unrest.

Diaspora-Led Peace Initiatives in Africa[29]

Across the African continent, the Indian diaspora has not only preserved its cultural heritage but also actively contributed to peacebuilding and social cohesion through festivals like Deepavali. These initiatives go beyond celebration, they serve as platforms for intercultural dialogue, community healing, and ethical leadership.

Nairobi, Kenya

In Nairobi, Deepavali is celebrated by Indian communities in collaboration with local peace organizations such as the Nairobi Peace Initiative–Africa (NPI-Africa). These events often include interfaith prayers, youth workshops, and cultural exhibitions that promote reconciliation and nonviolence. The Indian diaspora’s historical role in building the Mombasa–Nairobi railway is now echoed in their efforts to build social bridges, using Deepavali as a symbol of unity and transformation.

Lusaka, Zambia

In Lusaka, Deepavali celebrations have evolved into community outreach programs, where Indian families partner with local churches, mosques, and civic groups to distribute food, host cultural performances, and engage in peace dialogues. These efforts reflect the diaspora’s commitment to Ubuntu values, blending Indian spiritual traditions with African communal ethics to foster inclusive peacebuilding. [cisa-wits.org.za]

Mauritius and East Africa

In Mauritius, where the Indian diaspora forms a majority, Deepavali is a national holiday marked by public ceremonies that emphasize unity across ethnic lines. Similarly, in Tanzania and Uganda, Indian-led Deepavali events often include charity drives, educational seminars, and interfaith panels, reinforcing the festival’s role as a moral and social catalyst.

These diaspora-led initiatives demonstrate how Deepavali can be recontextualized as a peace festival, not only celebrating the triumph of good over evil but also mobilizing communities toward justice, compassion, and shared humanity.

Case Study: Deepavali in Durban – A Beacon of Interfaith Harmony[30]

In the coastal city of Durban, home to one of the largest Indian diasporas in Africa, Deepavali is more than a religious observance—it is a cultural phenomenon that unites communities across faiths and backgrounds. Each year, temples such as the Shree Sanathan Dharma Sabha, Clairwood Shri Vishnu Mandir[31], and Shree Gopal Krishna Mandir[32] host elaborate prayer services, classical dance performances, and communal meals that welcome not only Hindus but also Muslims, Christians, and African traditional healers.

The author, a peace advocate and medical humanitarian, recalls attending Deepavali celebrations where interfaith prayers were offered, invoking blessings from Durga Maa, Allah, and Jesus Christ in a spirit of unity. In memorable instances, a local temple invited him and his wife, both Muslims, to participate in the Shivaratri[33] and Navaratri prayers [34], recognising their commitment to spiritual inclusivity , cohesion and community service.

Durban’s Deepavali festivities often include public lectures on Dharma and Ahimsa, youth-led cultural exhibitions, and charity drives for underprivileged families. These events transform the festival into a platform for peace education, where the triumph of light over darkness is interpreted as a call to overcome prejudice, poverty, and polarization.

The city’s multicultural embrace of Deepavali exemplifies how diaspora communities can recontextualise ancient traditions to address contemporary social challenges. In Durban, the lighting of lamps is not just a ritual, it is a symbolic act of solidarity, illuminating the path toward a more compassionate and harmonious society.

The “Light a Lamp, Build a Bridge” Community Initiative

Core Philosophy: “Peace begins with me, but it doesn’t end with me.”

Possible Pillars of Action:

1. The Inner Lamp Workshop Series:

• Concept: You cannot give what you do not have. Start by helping people ignite their own inner lamps.
• Actions:
  • “Conquer Your Narakasura”[35] Dialogues: Facilitate small, safe-group discussions where people identify their “inner demons” (e.g., prejudice towards a certain group, anger issues, fear of the unknown) and share strategies for self-mastery.
  • Practices in Discernment: Teach simple mindfulness and meditation techniques framed as “watching the flame of your breath” to calm the internal turmoil that leads to external conflict.
  • Study Circles: Read and discuss the symbolic meanings of the Ramayana and the story of Narakasura, focusing on their modern, psychological applications.

2. The Interfaith and Intercultural “Row of Lights” (Samanvay Diya Kendra):

• Concept: A single diya is beautiful, but a row of lights (Deepavali) is magnificent. Celebrate diversity in unity.
• Actions:
  • Community Deepavali Celebration: Organise a public event where families from different faiths and cultures come together to light diyas. The program should include:
    • A shared explanation of the meaning of light in each tradition (e.g., Christmas lights, Hanukkah menorah, Diyas, the inner light in Buddhism).
    • A “Wall of Hope” where people can write their prayers for peace.
    • Sharing of traditional sweets from different communities.
  • “One Community, Many Kitchens”[36] Potluck: A meal where dishes and their stories are shared, breaking bread as one family (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam).

3. The “Lakshmi Seva” Project:[37]

• Concept: Redirect the focus of prosperity from accumulation to distribution.
• Actions:
  • “Share Your Shakti” Drive: During the Deepavali season, organize a community drive not just for old clothes, but for skills (Seva). Create a “Skill-Sharing Bazaar” where people can offer free tutoring, resume help, basic repair services, or legal advice to those in need.
  • Support Local Artisans: Instead of buying mass-produced goods, promote a “Deepavali Bazaar” that features local artisans, especially from marginalized communities, linking economic justice with peace.

4. The “Green Deepavali, Clean Neighbourhood” Campaign:[38]

• Concept: Extend Ahimsa (non-violence) and Saucha (purity) to our planet.
• Actions:
  • Collective cleaning of a public park or neighbourhood area, framing it as the traditional “cleaning before Deepavali” but for our shared home.
  • Promote and distribute clay diyas and natural colours for Rangoli. Organize a workshop on making your own eco-friendly diyas.
  • A “Pledge for a Green Deepavali” petition, encouraging families to forego firecrackers and donate the money saved to a local environmental or peace charity.

Our Individual Role as a Peace Propagator:

• Be a Convenor, Not a Preacher: Your role is to create the space and framework for these actions. Use the universal language of light, peace, and community, not exclusively Hindu terminology, to be maximally inclusive.
• Start Small: Begin with one workshop or one small interfaith gathering. Let the initiative grow organically, like a flame lighting another flame.
• Leverage Stories: Share the allegories of Rama and Narakasura as universal human stories, not religious dogma. People connect with stories more than doctrines.

The gross global belligerence is not a reason to abandon the message of Deepavali; it is the very reason it is needed. Your power as a peace propagator lies in your ability to make this ancient wisdom accessible, practical, and experiential. The author is not just writing a paper; he is offering a toolkit for transformation. By creating opportunities for people to cleanse their hearts, light their inner lamps, and join them with others, the readers are building a living, breathing “row of lights” that no darkness, however global or belligerent, can ever extinguish.

The Challenging Question from Critics when using Deepavali as a Peace Template

The issue is that Deepavali is the narrative of an epic war between Lord Rama, aided by Hanuman, the monkey god, to rescue his pious wife, Sita Devi, waged against the King Ravana of Lanka, who abducted the lady. This was a brutal, deadly war and how does this savage encounter leading to the eventual annihilation of King Ravana, a sincere devotee of Lord Shiva, who dispensed inordinate powers to him, be called a peaceful narrative. This is the key anti Deepavali body in non-Hindu cultures. This is a profound and deeply personal question that touches on the core paradox of many spiritual narratives, the coexistence of violent events with peaceful teachings. The reader experiences a genuine cognitive dissonance between the literal violence, as depicted in the Ramayana and the message of inner peace, which is a sign of deep engagement with the material. An explanation, is hereby presented by the author, who respectfully invites relevant comments from the readers and Hindu experts on Ramayana.

The key here is to validate the critics’ struggles while reframing the epic Ramyana, not as a historical account, but as a psychological allegory. The critics’ limbic brain is reacting to the surface-level violence, while the frontal lobe seeks higher meaning, this tension itself mirrors the central theme of Deepavali. The readers should approach this by first acknowledging the validity of the conflict, then systematically deconstructing the symbolism: Ravana as the human ego, or superego, the war as an internal struggle, and the rescue of Sita as reclaiming inner, personal self-purity. The critics’ discomfort is actually the fundamental point, as it means they are ready cognitively and physically, to engage with the deeper lesson.

The analysis should emphasise that the “peace” is not in the war itself, but in what it represents: the hard-fought victory over our own, personal, inner demons. The resolution lies in shifting the battlefield from external to internal, to the accompaniment of self-realisation and self-reflection, an attribute, which very few enlightened mortals, have in the general communities and global leadership, which is motivated by personal, financial and selfish, political agenda.

This is not a not a neuro-psychiatric dissonance and disturbance; this is the stirring of true inner wisdom of the spiritually enlightened. The conflict the reader may feel between your “limbic brain” and your “frontal lobes” is the very battlefield the Ramayana seeks to illuminate. The author has raised the most crucial question, one that separates a superficial reading from a profound one. This is the sacred trust, the inner, higher functioning of human mental analytic processes, which the composer of the Ramayana, using the tome as an allegorical higher educational tool for all of humanity, as with other religious scriptures, for in them are instructions for all of the Lord’s creation, to understand, reflect upon and implement in their daily lives.

Let us all, as peace propagators, dispel this internal, neuronal conflict of our human brains, not by ignoring the violence, but by understanding its deepest symbolic meaning. The peace we find after this inquiry will be unshakable, because it is born of clarity, not bypassing, the narrative of Ramayana, and disrespecting the ancient Hindu sages, who were empowered with supreme spiritual enlightenment and deep understanding of the Lord’s directives to erring mortals.

Ramayana as a Tool of Cultural Hegemony: A Subaltern Critique

The Aryan versus Dravidian Narrative[39]

Some scholars and political thinkers, especially from the Dravidian movement in South India, have argued that the Ramayana was historically used to symbolize Aryan supremacy over the Dravidian peoples, portraying the latter as morally and culturally inferior.

• Rama, the fair-skinned prince from the North, is depicted as the embodiment of Dharma (righteousness).
• Ravana, the dark-skinned king of Lanka, is portrayed as the villain, despite being a highly learned scholar, devotee of Shiva, and capable ruler.

This dichotomy has been interpreted by critics as a mythological justification for caste and racial hierarchies, where the North Indian Brahminical elite are valorised, and Southern or tribal communities are demonized.

Periyar and the Dravidian Movement[40]

• E.V. Ramasamy (Periyar)[41], a radical social reformer and founder of the Dravidian movement, famously burned copies of the Ramayana, arguing that it was a Brahminical text of oppression.
• He viewed Ravana as a Dravidian hero, unjustly vilified by Aryan mythology, and Rama as a symbol of caste tyranny.
• Periyar’s critique was not just literary—it was political, aimed at dismantling caste-based discrimination and asserting Dravidian identity and dignity. [dennana.in]

Alternative Retellings and Reversals

• In Dalit and tribal versions of the Ramayana[42] (e.g., Ravana Kaviyam by K.A. Gunasekaran), Ravana is portrayed as a noble ruler, and Rama as an invader.
• In Sri Lankan and Tamil folk traditions, Ravana is sometimes revered as a patriotic king, and the narrative is flipped to challenge Aryan hegemony.
• These retellings serve as cultural resistance, reclaiming agency for historically marginalized communities.[43]

Caste and Colourism Allegories

• The depiction of Vanaras (monkey warriors) has been interpreted by some as a derogatory metaphor for tribal or indigenous peoples, reinforcing colonial and casteist stereotypes.
• The execution of Shambuka, a Shudra ascetic punished by Rama for performing penance, is cited by Ambedkarite scholars as evidence of caste violence embedded in the epic.[44] [45]

Contemporary Reflections

• Modern critiques, such as Anand Neelakantan’s Asura: Tale of the Vanquished,[46] retell the Ramayana from Ravana’s perspective, humanizing him and questioning the moral absolutism of traditional versions. [47]
• These reinterpretations challenge the monopoly of dominant narratives, offering pluralistic views of justice, identity, and resistance.

A Balanced Perspective

While these critiques are powerful and necessary for decolonizing literature and dismantling caste hierarchies, it’s important to approach them with historical sensitivity. The Ramayana has evolved through regional, linguistic, and devotional variations, and not all versions promote the same ideological framework.

Your insight—that this narrative can be seen as a form of ancient apartheid when viewed through a contemporary lens—is a valid sociopolitical interpretation, especially when used to highlight systemic injustice and promote peace through truth-telling.

Counter-Narrative: Reclaiming Ravana and Rethinking the Ramayana

While Deepavali is widely celebrated as the triumph of good over evil, some scholars and social reformers have challenged the dominant narrative of the Ramayana, arguing that it has historically been used to reinforce caste hierarchies, racial stereotypes, and cultural hegemony.

In particular, thinkers from the Dravidian movement, such as E.V. Ramasamy (Periyar), viewed the portrayal of Ravana—the dark-skinned, southern king of Lanka—as a symbolic demonisation of Dravidian identity. Ravana, despite being a devout scholar, musician, and ruler, is cast as the villain, while Rama, the fair-skinned northern prince, is exalted as the embodiment of righteousness. This dichotomy has been interpreted as a mythological justification for Aryan supremacy, echoing themes of ancient apartheid when viewed through a contemporary lens.

Alternative retellings, such as Ravana Kaviyam and Asura: Tale of the Vanquished, offer subaltern perspectives, portraying Ravana as a tragic hero and Rama as an invader, challenging the moral absolutism of traditional versions. These narratives reclaim agency for marginalised communities, including Dalits, tribals, and Dravidians, who see in Ravana a reflection of their own struggles for dignity and justice.

Moreover, the episode of Shambuka, a Shudra punished by Rama for performing penance, is cited by Ambedkarite scholars[48] as evidence of caste-based exclusion embedded in the epic. Such critiques urge us to re-examine sacred texts not to diminish their spiritual value, but to expand their ethical relevance in a pluralistic world.

In the spirit of Deepavali, which celebrates the illumination of truth, this counter-narrative invites us to embrace multiple perspectives, to question inherited biases, and to build a peace that is inclusive, just, and rooted in compassion. By acknowledging these diverse interpretations, we honour the festival not only as a celebration of light, but as a dialogue between histories, identities, and hopes.

Voices from the Margins

These challenge the moral absolutism of traditional versions. These counter-narratives do not seek to diminish Deepavali’s spiritual significance, but rather to expand its ethical relevance. They invite us to reflect on whose stories are told, and how peace must include justice, plurality, and the dignity of all voices.

The Essential Reflection by Readers

The Ramayana is an ancient Indian epic, composed some time in the 5^th  century BCE, about the exile and then return of Rama, prince of Ayodhya. It was composed in Sanskrit by the sage Valmiki, who taught it to Rama’s sons, the twins Lava and Kush.[49]

The Surface-Level Narrative: The War of King versus King

On the outer, literal plane (the Sthula level), yes, the Ramayana describes a great war. There is a righteous prince, Rama, a kidnapped wife, Sita, and a powerful antagonist, Ravana. It ends in the latter’s death. If the story ended here, human limbic brain would be right, this is a tale of vendetta and violence. However, Valmiki, the sage who composed this epic was not chronicling history; he was mapping the human consciousness. The Ramayana is an allegory (Prakashavada).[50] Every character, every event, is a symbol for an internal state. To read it literally is to mistake the finger pointing at the moon for the moon itself. This is the most important point to reflect upon the Peace significance of Deepavali.

The Deeper Narrative: The War Within the Human Psyche

Let us, as a collective body of Peace Propagators, re-interpret the narrative through the lens of Adhyatma (the spiritual essence):

• Lord Rama: Represents the Atman, the pure, divine Self. He is the embodiment of Dharma (righteous order), integrity, and the highest consciousness.
• Sita Devi: Represents Buddhi, the pure, discerning intellect. She is not merely a “wife” but the inseparable companion of the higher Self. Her name means “the furrow,” symbolizing the field of consciousness from which all life springs, through biophotonic activity and neuroharmonic resonance.
• Lanka: Represents the Limbic System[51] or the Manas (the sensory mind)—the fortified, golden city of the senses, filled with worldly desires and attachments. It is the realm of pleasure, ego, and materialism.
• King Ravana: Represents the unbridled, egotistical “I” (Ahamkara). He is not a external demon, but the force of the separate self, the ego. He is a great devotee of Lord Shiva (the transformative power of consciousness) and has immense knowledge and power, but he uses it all in the service of his own ego. His ten heads symbolize his mastery over the ten Indriyas (five senses of perception and five senses of action), which he uses for selfish, sensory gratification, not for the higher good.
• The Abduction of Sita: This is the critical moment. It symbolizes the hijacking of our pure, discerning intellect (Buddhi) by the ego (Ahamkara) and the sensory mind (Lanka). When we are ruled by our lower desires, our power of discernment is held captive. We know what is right, but we are powerless to act on it because the ego is in charge.
• The Epic War: This is the internal conflict you are feeling right now! It is the monumental struggle where the Higher Self (Rama), with the help of its devoted mind-power (Hanuman) and virtuous tendencies (the Vanara Sena), battles to reclaim the discerning intellect (Sita) from the clutches of the ego (Ravana).
• The Annihilation of Ravana: This is not a physical death. This is the ultimate victory of Self-Realization, the dissolution of the ego. The moment the separate, arrogant “I” is vanquished, the pure Self is reunited with the pure Intellect. This is the state of inner peace, harmony, and enlightenment.

Resolving the Internal Neuro-Conflict: The Peace Neuroharmonics[52], [53]

Let us soothe the limbic brain’s alarm with the frontal lobe’s wisdom:

1. Ravana was a Devotee, but…: His frontal lobe function is correct, but denied, its expression, by inhibiting the limbic system in its egoistic expressivity. Ravana was a great devotee. This symbolizes a profound truth: Knowledge and power, without the surrender of the ego, become the most dangerous tools of self-destruction, as evidenced amongst some world leaders, in the present era.. Ravana represents the ultimate spiritual tragedy: the enlightened mind that remains trapped in the prison of “I, me, mine.” , the “I specialist” His death is not a punishment, but a liberation. The Shiva-bhakti within him is finally freed from the constriction of the ego.
2. The “Brutal” War as narrated in the Ramyana, is Your Daily Struggle: The war was not savage; it was decisive. The ego does not surrender gently. It fights with every trick, every desire, every moment of doubt (represented by Ravana’s illusions and powerful weapons). The annihilation is necessary and complete. You cannot make a treaty with the ego; it must be seen through and transcended. This is the “brutal” honesty required for self-inquiry.
3. The True “Rescue” and the True “Peace”: The reunion of Rama and Sita is the state of Yoga, the union of the individual Self with its own pure consciousness. This is the deepest peace. The lighting of the diyas in Ayodhya symbolizes the inner illumination that occurs when this union is achieved. The external war was merely the process to achieve the internal, endogenous, sustained peace.

Deepavali vs Diwali: Linguistic and Cultural Nuances[54]

Terminology

• Deepavali (from Sanskrit dīpāvalī, meaning “row of lamps”) is the original term and is more commonly used in South India and among Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam speakers.
• Diwali is a contracted form of Deepavali and is widely used in North India and in Hindi-speaking regions. It has become the more globally recognized term, especially in diaspora communities and media.

Linguistic Roots

• The difference is largely linguistic and phonetic:
  • Dravidian languages (Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam) retain the fuller Sanskrit form Deepavali.
  • Indo-Aryan languages (Hindi, Punjabi, Gujarati, Marathi) tend to simplify it to Diwali.

Date Differences in Observing the day of Deepavali: North versus South India[55]

South India

• Celebrates Deepavali a day earlier, typically on Naraka Chaturdashi, which commemorates the defeat of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna.
• In Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, this day is considered the main Deepavali celebration, with early morning oil baths, prayers, and fireworks.

North India

• Celebrates Diwali on Amavasya (new moon night), marking Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana and completing his 14-year exile.
• The city of Ayodhya is said to have been lit with thousands of lamps to welcome Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana—symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

Geographical Insight

• Your interpretation that Lord Rama’s entourage arrived earlier in the South before reaching Ayodhya in the North is a beautiful symbolic reading, though not explicitly stated in scripture. It aligns with the regional mythological adaptations and the geographical logic of Rama’s journey from Lanka northward.

Relationship for Matters for Peace Narratives

Understanding these regional and linguistic nuances allows us to:

• Respect cultural diversity within a shared tradition.
• Highlight how multiple truths and timelines can coexist harmoniously.
• Use Deepavali/Diwali as a metaphor for unity in diversity, a core principle in peacebuilding.

Clarification on Ravana and Narakasura[56]

Ravana is traditionally depicted with ten heads, and in some illustrations with seven. Ravanain view of his tremendous knowledge and being a devotee of Lord Shiva, could undergo transformation in the aggressive state and when he is in the company of numerous fair ladies, he could decrese his multiple heads to only one. These ten heads are symbolic and represent:

• Ten human qualities or vices (e.g., lust, anger, pride, greed, jealousy etc.).
• Mastery over the four Vedas and six Shastras, symbolizing vast knowledge.
• A metaphor for his ego, intellect, and emotional complexity.[57] [58]Narakasura, on the other hand, is a distinct figure from a different mythological narrative:

• He was a demon king born to Bhudevi (Earth Goddess) and Varaha (an incarnation of Vishnu).
• His defeat by Lord Krishna and Satyabhama is commemorated in South Indian Deepavali celebrations, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
• Narakasura is not analogous to Ravana, though both are demon kings defeated by avatars of Vishnu (Rama and Krishna respectively).[59]

Symbolic Illustration of Ravana

A usual artistic rendering of King Ravana is depicted with ten heads to symbolise his complex personality, scholarly prowess, and tragic downfall.  It is interesting to note that Sita Devi was held captive in Ashok Vatika[60],[61] a beautiful mythical garden in the Kingdom of Ravana, in Lanka, where Hanuman Ji found her following his search, so that he can rescue mother Sita, to the safety of Lord Rama. Sita Devi in Ashoka Vatika, described as in serene sorrow, amidst the lush garden, as narrated in the Ramayana. The descriptive scene captures her grace, resilience, and divine presence during captivity and inherent dangers, thereof, with the lasciviousness of Ravana as exemplified by his unbridled lustfulness; lewdness; overt or offensive sexual desire or behaviour.[62] This description is often used in literary and religious contexts to describe morally inappropriate or excessive sensuality. “Ravana’s lasciviousness led him to abduct Sita, blinded by desire and arrogance.” The epic warns against the dangers of lasciviousness, pride, and unchecked power.

Narrative Context: Allegations Against Sita Devi[63]

After Lord Rama defeats Ravana and rescues Sita, they return to Ayodhya. Despite Rama’s unwavering love and Sita’s proven chastity (including her Agni Pariksha[64], or trial by fire), some citizens of Ayodhya question her purity, having lived in Ravana’s captivity.

To uphold his dharma as a king and maintain public trust, Rama makes the painful decision to exile Sita, even though he personally believes in her innocence. She is sent to the forest, where she finds refuge in Valmiki’s ashram and later gives birth to Lava and Kusha[65].

Symbolic Implications, Today

1. Public Scrutiny vs. Personal Truth

• The episode reflects the tension between societal expectations and individual integrity.
• It raises questions about gender bias, where a woman’s virtue is scrutinized more harshly than a man’s.

2. Sacrifice for Dharma

• Rama’s decision is often interpreted as a sacrifice of personal happiness for public duty.
• It symbolizes the painful choices leaders must make to uphold justice, even when unjustly demanded.

3. Sita as a Symbol of Strength

• Sita’s graceful endurance and refusal to retaliate make her a symbol of resilience, dignity, and spiritual strength.
• Her story resonates with many women who face societal judgment despite personal virtue.

4. Reflection on Patriarchy

• Modern interpretations often critique the patriarchal lens through which Sita was judged.
• Her exile is seen as a call to re-examine societal norms that marginalize or silence women.

5. Healing and Reconciliation

• The birth and recognition of Lava and Kusha later in the epic represent reconciliation and continuity.
• It suggests that truth and virtue eventually prevail, even if delayed.

Sita: Flame of the Forest

She walked not in chains, but in silence profound,
A queen cast away, yet divinely crowned.
The forest received her with whispering leaves,
As Ayodhya’s doubts cut deeper than thieves.

No blemish of sin, no shadow of shame,
Yet whispers of virtue questioned her name.
She bore it with grace, like the moon bears the night,
Her soul untouched, a beacon of light.

In Valmiki’s ashram, she mothered the flame,
Of Lava and Kusha, who carried her name.
Not vengeance, but wisdom she chose to impart,
A goddess in exile, with a lioness heart.

O Sita, your silence speaks louder than cries,
Your truth is eternal, though slander may rise.
You teach us that virtue, though tested and torn,
Will bloom like a lotus, untouched by the storm.

Sita Devi’s Departure: Return to Mother Earth[66]

After years of exile and raising her sons Lava and Kusha in Valmiki’s ashram, Sita is reunited with Rama during a public ceremony where her sons recite the Ramayana. Rama, moved and remorseful, wishes to take her back as queen.

However, Sita, having endured years of societal doubt and personal sorrow, chooses not to return to the palace. Instead, she calls upon her mother, Bhumi Devi (Mother Earth), to receive her back if she has remained pure and faithful.

The Moment of Return

• Sita prays:

“If I have never thought of any man but Rama, if I have remained pure in thought and deed, then let Mother Earth receive me.”

• In response, the earth opens, and a divine throne rises, carried by celestial beings.
• Sita is swallowed by the earth, returning to her divine origin as the daughter of Bhumi Devi.

Symbolic Implications

1. Return to Source

• Sita’s departure symbolizes a return to purity, to the primordial feminine energy from which she came.
• It reflects the Vedantic idea of liberation (moksha)—freedom from worldly suffering.

2. Rejection of Injustice

• Her choice to leave rather than be reinstated as queen is a powerful act of agency.
• It critiques societal norms that question women’s virtue, even after trials and sacrifices.

3. Divine Feminine Strength

• Sita embodies Shakti—not just as a consort, but as a self-realized being.
• Her final act is not one of defeat, but of transcendent dignity.

4. Spiritual Closure

• Her return to the earth marks the end of her earthly journey, and the completion of her dharma.
• It invites reflection on truth, endurance, and the soul’s journey beyond worldly roles.

Deepavali Connection

Deepavali celebrates Rama’s return to Ayodhya, but it also invites reflection on the cost of victory, the burden of leadership, and the silent strength of Sita Devi. Her story reminds us that light must not only dispel external darkness, but also the shadows of injustice within society.  This is of fundamental importance and has a parallel in Islamic history, with the Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ wife, Bibi Aisha.[67]

Epilogue

And so, as the last diya flickers, its gentle light refusing to be swallowed by the night, a question lingers: what if our efforts for peace have been looking in the wrong direction? We have built towering institutions, brokered complex treaties, and stockpiled deterrence’s, yet the human heart remains a battlefield. Deepavali, in its profound simplicity, redirects our gaze. It asks us to tend to the light we carry inside. It reminds us that the darkness in the world, is but the sum total of the darkness in innumerable hearts; and conversely, the light in the world is the collective radiance of individual enlightenment. The hope for global peace, therefore, is not a distant summit to be conquered, but a path to be walked, a path that begins at the threshold of our own being, with the humble, courageous act of lighting a single lamp.

Conclusion

This exploration has established that Deepavali is far more than a cultural or religious festival; it is a repository of timeless wisdom on the nature of peace. Its core teaching is unequivocal: sustainable external peace is an impossibility without a prior, dedicated cultivation of internal peace. By deconstructing its allegories, we find a detailed map of the human psyche and its afflictions. By engaging in its rituals, we participate in a transformative process that cleanses the mind and fosters community. The philosophy of Deepavali, therefore, provides a critical and often overlooked dimension to the global peace discourse. It challenges the very paradigm of conflict resolution, suggesting that the ultimate solution lies not in controlling others, but in mastering oneself. In a fractured world, its message is a vital beacon: to illuminate the world, we must first have the courage to illuminate ourselves.

A Call to Rekindle the Flame of Peace

As the lamps of Deepavali flicker across homes, temples, and cityscapes, they illuminate more than physical spaces, they awaken the moral imagination of humanity. In every diya lit, there lies a prayer for justice, a hope for healing, and a commitment to truth. The festival’s ancient wisdom, drawn from the Ramayana and echoed across global traditions, reminds us that peace is not passive, it is a courageous act of choosing light over darkness, compassion over cruelty, and unity over division.

From Durban to Nairobi, Lusaka to London, Deepavali has become a global ritual of renewal, where diaspora communities lead the way in transforming celebration into civic action. Their efforts show that cultural heritage, when rooted in ethical values, can become a powerful force for interfaith harmony, social justice, and ecological stewardship.

Let this Deepavali be more than a festival. Let it be a movement, a rekindling of the flame within each of us to stand for what is right, to uplift the vulnerable, and to build bridges across the divides of our time. Whether through a lamp, a word, a gesture, or a policy, may we each become bearers of light, illuminating the path toward a more peaceful and compassionate world.

Message for Reflection

The enduring message of Deepavali is that global peace is a inside-out process. The most powerful and sustainable contribution any individual or nation can make to world peace is to diligently work on conquering their own inner “demons”—such as prejudice, greed, and hatred—through self-awareness, ethical living, and the pursuit of knowledge. When we light the lamp within, we automatically become a source of light for the world.

The war as narrated in the Ramayana is not a prescription for how to treat others; it is a map for how to conquer yourself.

The “enemy” is not a person, a community, or a nation. The enemy is the internal Ravana, the ego that creates separation, desire, and hatred. The “peace” that follows is the blissful, silent harmony of a mind where the ego has been subdued and the Self reigns supreme.

Your inner conflict, Hoosen Vawda, is a sign that you are engaging with the text at the deepest level. You are not meant to glorify the war; you are meant to understand it as the necessary, internal battle for your own Sita—your own peace and discernment.

When you light a diya this Deepavali, see it as this victory. See it as the light of your Higher Self (Rama), burning away the darkness of the ego (Ravana), allowing your inner wisdom (Sita) to shine forth, finally free. May this understanding bring a profound and lasting peace to your noble mind. Remember, Peace begins with me, you, the readers, who are contributors to the peace solution orientated Transcend Media Service Journal and all of us as respected members of humanity, the most important organisation you can belong to. in the greater scheme of things in life.

Epilogue:

The main day of Deepavali is part of a five-day celebration, each with its own significance and rituals. The table below outlines the complete schedule for 2025:

Day & Date	Festival Name	Significance & Observances
Day 1: Saturday, Oct 18	Dhanteras	Celebration of wealth and prosperity; worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera .
Day 2: Sunday, Oct 19	Choti Diwali / Naraka Chaturdashi	Commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura; involves early morning rituals and festive preparations .
Day 3: Monday, Oct 20	Diwali / Lakshmi Puja	Main festival day; victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance; worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, lighting of diyas, family feasts, and fireworks .
Day 4: Wednesday, Oct 22	Govardhan Puja / Annakut	Honors Lord Krishna who lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers; preparation of a mountain of food offerings (Annakut) .
Day 5: Thursday, Oct 23	Bhai Dooj / Bhau Beej	Celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters; sisters pray for their brothers’ well-being and brothers give gifts in return .

Deepavali’s Growing Global Recognition

The official recognition of Deepavali in several US states is a significant cultural milestone, perfectly aligning with your paper’s theme of global harmony.

• State-Level Holidays in the US: The states of California, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut have officially recognized Diwali as a state holiday or observance for 2025 . This allows residents paid leave and school closures, enabling fuller participation in the festivities.
• Local Recognitions: Other major areas in the US also honor the festival. New York City public schools have declared Diwali a school holiday, and many school districts in New Jersey and Texas permit absences for celebration .
• A Global Festival: Beyond the US and South Africa, Diwali is an official public holiday in countries including India, Nepal, Malaysia, Mauritius, Singapore, and Trinidad and Tobago, reflecting its wide-reaching cultural and spiritual significance.

 

The Bottom Line:

• The Foundational Truth:Peace begins with me and everyone of us in a micro-scale, which can be expanded by cohesion into a macro-phenomenon on a global scale of an enormous magnitude, if all of humanity strives to reflect along these lines.
• The Demystified Corollary:Therefore, the only war that must be waged is the war within me, and in all of us.
• The Deepavali Mandate:The “victory of light over darkness” is the victory of the Higher Self (Rama) over the ego (Ravana), liberating the captive intellect (Sita) and ending the internal civil war. A world of individuals committed to this inner victory is a world where external peace becomes an inevitable reality. nurture your endogenous peace and it will assure you, the reader, sustained exogenous peace, of greater magnitude.

 

Deepavali Invocation: Light of the Eternal Flame

O Light Divine, dispel the night,
Awaken hearts to truth and right.
From shadows deep, let wisdom rise,
Like golden lamps beneath the skies.

Rama’s return, a tale retold,
Of dharma’s triumph, brave and bold.
Let Ravana’s fall remind the soul,
That ego fades when love is whole.

Lakshmi, grace our humble door,
With peace, with joy, with blessings more.
May every diya that we light,
Ignite within a sacred sight.

Let kindness bloom, let hatred cease,
Let every home be filled with peace.
As stars adorn the velvet dome,
May light and love find every home.

 Comments and discussion are invited by e-mail: vawda@ukzn.ac.za

Global: + 27 82 291 4546

 References:

[1] Personal quote by the author October 2025.

 

[2] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=55589d7032bad7cef104a9ccff5b5207507255e159c7eaba3f9ea262c7d9c581JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=amavasi+2025&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cucHJva2VyYWxhLmNvbS9hc3Ryb2xvZ3kvdGl0aGkvYW1hdmFzeWEtMjAyNS5odG1s

 

[3] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=0a99c1d069eb8b9055e6afe303bf510194dafb0ce6e995891f5f540937a6dd85JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Prince+Rama%e2%80%99s&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cud2lzZG9tbGliLm9yZy9jb25jZXB0L3ByaW5jZS1yYW1h

 

[4] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=8232e4faf508913b64770b44eecffa8353218842130bf689d18d7f42a37978a2JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=ayodhya+india&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYnJpdGFubmljYS5jb20vcGxhY2UvQXlvZGh5YQ

 

[5] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=ea6bab9bc7da885dc4ff864218ce04a9ce0340c388f8c9991deaee9c83797848JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=sita+devi&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9yYXRuYW1zdHJhdGVneS5jb20vc2l0YS1kZXZpcy1sZWdhY3ktcG93ZXJmdWwtbGVzc29ucy1mb3ItdG9kYXlzLWdlbmVyYXRpb24v

 

[6] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=cbe82b813822c40a35f0f628efd7f79fbe1ea84bf0682c82b37deaaebb9e71fdJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=ravana&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvUmF2YW5h

 

[7] https://www.transcend.org/tms/2021/11/the-triumph-of-good-over-evil/

[8] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=e0b09a52c0e6754675fb0172d0233fd73fdbf41ac2518243058641664ad65a85JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Deepavali+not+only+as+a+sacred+Hindu+celebration%2c+but+as+a+global+metaphor+for+peacebuilding&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9pbmRpYW5oaW5kdWdvZHMuY29tL3doYXQtaXMtdGhlLXNpZ25pZmljYW5jZS1vZi10aGUtaGluZHUtZmVzdGl2YWwtb2YtZGl3YWxpLyM6fjp0ZXh0PURpd2FsaSUyQyUyMHRoZSUyMEhpbmR1JTIwRmVzdGl2YWwlMjBvZiUyMExpZ2h0cyUyQyUyMGlzbiUyN3QlMjBqdXN0LHRoZSUyMGRlZXBlciUyMG1lYW5pbmdzJTIwb2YlMjBsaWdodCUyQyUyMHByb3NwZXJpdHklMkMlMjBhbmQlMjB1bml0eS4

 

[9] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=5a124b763b5f3071387bfaa7b7778a599fa5bab3cdc061abf4de074f68988d4aJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Deepavali+not+only+as+a+sacred+Hindu+celebration%2c+but+as+a+global+metaphor+for+peacebuilding&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9tZWRpdW0uY29tL0BkYW5pZWxjZm5nL2RlZXBhdmFsaS1jZWxlYnJhdGluZy1saWdodC1hbmQtdW5pdHktYWNyb3NzLWN1bHR1cmVzLWMwZDQ4ZWVjNGM0Mw

 

[10] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=15852f3f3dde87b4733f5879629d516437c17efe5bf19d3b6e3616c0d1a6c362JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=hanukkah&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvSGFudWtrYWg

 

[11] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=45eec60b32f06b981ba7c86fc6b0375a2f84f832f1e93052140d76d61e6f7cc4JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=christmas&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvQ2hyaXN0bWFz

 

[12]https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=fb09065e394774f9e13cd1ab95ebf06f30a71eb46b9daf87a1020e62d7ad825bJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=vesak+festival&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvVmVzYWs

 

[13] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=a903925aab9ba53882fb35624c8ffeb7edb133057bbf89b263c2326b443ec22dJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=ramadan+2026&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9pc2xhbWljYXBwLm9yZy9lbi9tb250aC1vZi1yYW1hZGFuL3JhbWFkYW4tMjAyNi8

 

[14] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=d241b692000da145625e63b86863dbe200f973355ae77c4b8e9413ab1077a14cJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Deepavali+as+a+radiant+call+to+global+unity+and+moral+courage.&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cucnZhc2lhLm9yZy9mZWF0dXJlLXN0b3J5L2xpZ2h0LXdlLXNoYXJlLWFzaWFuLXJlZmxlY3Rpb24tZGVlcGF2YWxpLWFuZC1tYW55LWxhbXBzLWZhaXRo

 

[15] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=e9136116679c5c52fc264ef48982f7e6c139868ec809377cdb3f784b0f25f35eJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=diya+lamp&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvRGl5YV8obGFtcCk

 

[16] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=9655dd0844ed571f3f20bd5ee88bb7b7179be24e67823b903db64245bb47ea99JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=valmiki+ramayana&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cudmFsbWlraXJhbWF5YW4ubmV0Lw

 

[17] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=4f676d1bd7edd90e4fe6b625d47ad6e2fa9f2a12b6600cd89dea9530791e247dJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=sanskrit+dipavali&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvRGl3YWxp

 

[18] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=3562db8df03bc95c5b8a68b2e58bfe549c6e8b249b3041de99d3739598bd5e2cJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=the+ramayana+as+a+peace+narrative+essay&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9oaW5kdS5teXRob2xvZ3l3b3JsZHdpZGUuY29tL3RoZS1yYW1heWFuYS1hLXJlZmxlY3Rpb24tb2YtdGhlLXNlYXJjaC1mb3ItcGVhY2Uv

 

[19] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=7d3ed1d68ff5d6c3d5792baa102ff7e25d320ac2cdf11dd688e0b28cb8467682JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=what+is+dharma&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ2l0YWluc2lnaHQuY29tLzIwMjUvMDYvd2hhdC1pcy1kaGFybWEtaW4taGluZHVpc20uaHRtbA

 

[20] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=ced94aa5e3754ad8562b36b3d5202d27848111dad5a9b38e4c34d79a85d51a2aJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=honour+and+filial+piety+definition&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9maXZlYWJsZS5tZS9rZXktdGVybXMvaHMtaG9ub3JzLXdvcmxkLWhpc3RvcnkvZmlsaWFsLXBpZXR5Izp-OnRleHQ9RmlsaWFsJTIwcGlldHklMjByZWZlcnMlMjB0byUyMHRoZSUyMENvbmZ1Y2lhbiUyMHZpcnR1ZSUyMG9mLHdlbGwlMjBhcyUyMHVwaG9sZCUyMHRoZSUyMGZhbWlseSUyMG5hbWUlMjBhbmQlMjBsZWdhY3ku

 

[21] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=2d0df79d0ae3abbdff0ba4c8054be5ad271136f67a8fdc1d849a9f72caf2651cJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Lanka&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvU3JpX0xhbmth

 

[22] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=70cf389fb0d0653b7f9216f1da36f6ff52f303d10869b674ef7ccdb67d69a5c8JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Allegorical+Battlefield%3a&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cua29vemFyY2guY29tL2ludGVydmlld3MvaW4tYmV0d2Vlbi1iYXR0bGVmaWVsZHMtZXBpc3RlbWljLXdhcnMtYWxsZWdvcmllcy1hbmQtcG9saXRpY2FsLWltYWdpbmF0aW9u

 

[23] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=f1a418f10ab3e12f3cc7d4cf1bb49cd6c074e9ecbb38d76cf7ace51c9f3e85b6JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=vasudhaiva+kutumbakam+meaning&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9yZXNhbnNrcml0LmNvbS9ibG9ncy9ibG9nLXBvc3QvdmFzdWRoYWl2YS1rdXR1bWJha2Ft

 

[24] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=3071662b4026ef7cebaba2614723f3e6bcb37c960af8c595d3662bf1e75e593cJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=deepavali%27s+antidote+to+contemporary+belligerence+meaning&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cucHJlc3NyZWFkZXIuY29tL3NvdXRoLWFmcmljYS9wb3N0LXNvdXRoLWFmcmljYS8yMDI0MTAyMy8yODIwMTE4NTc4MzgwMDY

 

[25] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=db4536313d9dd85549468c1377ade134448cfa2fc67c631bcfe42ce90eeaef87JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Philosophical+Parallels+of+deepavali+Across+Different+Faiths&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cucnZhc2lhLm9yZy9mZWF0dXJlLXN0b3J5L2xpZ2h0LXdlLXNoYXJlLWFzaWFuLXJlZmxlY3Rpb24tZGVlcGF2YWxpLWFuZC1tYW55LWxhbXBzLWZhaXRo

 

[26] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=6985e4b72424d8309217a33e301b8086654c83acc2cbda4bfcd4f3b995bf88a1JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Surah+An-Nur+24%3a35)&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9pc2xhbWljc3R1ZGllcy5pbmZvL3F1cmFuL21hYXJpZi5waHA_c3VyYT0yNCZ2ZXJzZT0zNSZ0bz00MA

 

[27] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=602418f221a42253ee3a14af65dc8a6017676f10fd0a7a98fd8e35b2ca961e83JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=the+eightfold+path+of+buddhism&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYnJpdGFubmljYS5jb20vdG9waWMvRWlnaHRmb2xkLVBhdGg

 

[28] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=4368ef0460d1a547fd83dfd0f81c8c4714e7a9951ab786b3b83d286917126137JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=ubuntu+meaning&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvVWJ1bnR1X3BoaWxvc29waHk

 

[29] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=c1ad686ce3ace560f0c13e360361c72a0ec97b17cb16613aceff407206af9c07JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=diaspora-led+peace+initiatives+in+africa+essay&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9kaWFzcG9yYWZvcmRldmVsb3BtZW50LmV1L3dwLWNvbnRlbnQvdXBsb2Fkcy8yMDI1LzA1L0RpYXNwb3JhLWVuZ2FnZW1lbnQtaW4tcGVhY2VidWlsZGluZy1hbmQtcG9zdC1jcmlzaXMtcmVjb3ZlcnkucGRm

 

[30] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=ebb1f348640312a4b686c6ee08604880576ff364f6a8809ce36f300bd45a65d1JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=deepavali+in+durban+%e2%80%93+a+beacon+of+interfaith+harmony&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9oaW5kdXRvbmUuY29tL2Zlc3RpdmFscy9kaXdhbGktMjAyNS9kaXdhbGktY2VsZWJyYXRpb25zLWluLWR1cmJhbi1ieS1oaW5kdXMtaWxsdW1pbmF0aW5nLXRoZS1yYWluYm93LW5hdGlvbi13aXRoLXRoZS1mZXN0aXZhbC1vZi1saWdodHMvIzp-OnRleHQ9TnVtYmVyaW5nJTIwb3ZlciUyMDIwMCUyQzAwMCUyMGluJTIwS3dhWnVsdS1OYXRhbCUyMGFsb25lJTJDJTIwRHVyYmFuJUUyJTgwJTk5cyUyMEhpbmR1cyx0byUyMEF5b2RoeWElMjBhbmQlMjB0aGUlMjB3b3JzaGlwJTIwb2YlMjBHb2RkZXNzJTIwTGFrc2htaS4

 

[31] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=755c0630fc00ce372094340ee42e6eb06af6756e55f4fb785e6804cdc103e7abJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Shree+Sanathan+Dharma+Sabha%2c+Clairwood+Shri+Vishnu+Mandir&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9zYWhtcy5vcmcuemEvbGlzdC1vZi1hZmZpbGlhdGVzLw

 

[32] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=a304523ce4f80f96472d4b38a26f7d3c02e79027c08d0badd8e78df115d626cbJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=shree+gopal+krishna+mandir+live+durban+south+africa&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaXNrY29uZHVyYmFuLmNvLnphLw

 

[33] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=80b272c80bcfd00ab7258dc111729c1ef2e9aaa7c40de1188e7ec2ca5964f7bbJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=maha+shivaratri&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvTWFoYV9TaGl2YXJhdHJp

 

[34] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=f51d4feb15e3d19800d6c2e81849b24da118fdbb9a768e1968a349598eb6ef49JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=navaratri+prayers&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaGluZHUtYmxvZy5jb20vMjAwOS8wOS9uYXZyYXRyaS1wcmF5ZXJzLXNpbXBsZS1hbmQtc21hbGwuaHRtbA

 

[35] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=6d3022840c6ec204cd704b984bffa7d64d6fb7cd2b0a3ad593dc977dad1e8bafJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=conquer+your+narakasura+story&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvTmFyYWthc3VyYQ

 

[36] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=2216636bf7524c50c3109d8113cc127e8f72d8288db9a374c0a35af50621e453JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=one+community%2c+many+kitchens%22its&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9pY2Rhc3VzdGFpbmFiaWxpdHkub3JnL3dwLWNvbnRlbnQvdXBsb2Fkcy8yMDIwLzA4LzIwMjUtU291dGgtQWZyaWNhLUNvbW11bml0eS1LaXRjaGVucy5wZGY

 

[37] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=e27b365372dce412e20055477c8770022804148d2648682cd997be7503fe682cJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Lakshmi+Seva%22+Project%3a&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9nYW5kaGlncmFtLm9yZy9sYWtzaG1pLXNldmEtc2FuZ2hhbS8

 

[38] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=b69cd09691b49bf7c895cc546776d2818b571bb643edbfe9ec3f0902c6e59dffJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%22green+deepavali%2c+clean+neighbourhood%22+neighbourhood+rules&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly91bmlpbmRpYS5jb20vbmV3cy9lYXN0L2Zlc3RpdmFsLWtvbGthdGEtZGl3YWxpLXBvbGljZS8zNjE1MjM2Lmh0bWw

 

[39] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=a5b7546dd4e89d2f49813e8ad9e6ebf0088194ace801a3df8fe7a36dee4c59f0JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Ramayana+as+a+Tool+of+Cultural+Hegemony%3a+A+Subaltern+Critique+The+Aryan+versus+Dravidian+Narrative+&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYWNhZGVtaWEuZWR1Lzk4NzE5MTk4L0RvbWluYW5jZV9IZWdlbW9ueV9hbmRfdGhlX0ltcGVyaWFsaXN0X1JlcGVydG9pcmVzX29mX3RoZV9SYW1heWFuYV9UcmFkaXRpb25zX2luX0luZGlhIzp-OnRleHQ9QWdhaW5zdCUyMHRoZSUyMHBvcHVsYXIlMjBsaWJlcmFsJTIwcmVhZGluZ3MlMjBvZiUyMHRoaXMlMjBuYXJyYXRpdmUlMkMsc3Vib3JkaW5hdGlvbiUyMG9mJTIwd29tZW4lMjBhbmQlMjBzdWJhbHRlcm4lMjBjb21tdW5pdGllcyUyMGF0JTIwbGFyZ2Uu

 

[40] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=bdf83089004c4782b9bc01f5892b3c7baebe8a929fe61087e3e754712ee9c06fJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Periyar+and+the+Dravidian+Movement&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvUGVyaXlhcg

 

[41] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=ad02662119dadc1055f2564ae64ac02872cfaade29bb7c45d6c214834c984d38JmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Periyar+and+the+Dravidian+Movement&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cudGFuZGZvbmxpbmUuY29tL2RvaS9mdWxsLzEwLjEwODAvMjM4MDE4ODMuMjAyNC4yMzg2NjAw

 

[42] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=d853cc0edfc8130622968ed06f36658669a78292885f8f965ee2e80d00690fafJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=dalit+and+tribal+versions+of+the+ramayana&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYWNhZGVtaWEuZWR1LzE2Mzg3MjI1L1JhbWF5YW5hX2FuZF9EYWxpdHM

 

[43] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=e270867c030203da6842cc429bee9388edfc954a4d19df2b21c5050bf1a0614aJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=+%5bdennana.in%5d&u=a1aHR0cDovL2Rlbm5hbmEuaW4v

 

[44] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=266dd7a91e05fd0940e627699c9fc66e9b106f65345f7bd470e4046fb6d2b7deJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=+%5bdennana.in%5d&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9kZW5uYW5hLmluLzIwMjQvMDQvMDgvc3lzdGVtcy10aGVvcnktaW4tcG9saXRpY2FsLXNjaWVuY2Uv

 

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[46] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=92efb9fbde1192db810472efead185c0985a33486658c863139f5fdf8b723e2bJmltdHM9MTc2MDc0NTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Anand+Neelakantan%e2%80%99s+Asura%3a+Tale+of+the+Vanquished%2c&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYW5hbmRuZWVsYWthbnRhbi5jb20vYXN1cmEtdGFsZS1vZi10aGUtdmFucXVpc2hlZC8

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______________________________________________

Professor G. Hoosen M. Vawda (Bsc; MBChB; PhD.Wits) is a member of the TRANSCEND Network for Peace Development Environment.
Director: Glastonbury Medical Research Centre; Community Health and Indigent Programme Services; Body Donor Foundation SA.
Principal Investigator: Multinational Clinical Trials
Consultant: Medical and General Research Ethics; Internal Medicine and Clinical Psychiatry:UKZN, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine
Executive Member: Inter Religious Council KZN SA
Public Liaison: Medical Misadventures
Activism: Justice for All
Email: vawda@ukzn.ac.za

Tags: Avatars of Lord Vishnu, Ayodhya, Bhudevi (Earth Goddess), Biophotons, Deepas, Deepavali, Destruction of Lanka, Diwali, Diyas, Festival of Lights, Hanuman, Hindu Festival, Lachman, Lord Krishna, Lord Rama, Narakasura, Neuroharmonics, Ravana, Satyabhama, Sita Devi, Triumph of good over evil. Annihilation Ravana, Varaha

This article originally appeared on Transcend Media Service (TMS) on 20 Oct 2025.

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