Community Corner
Community Celebrates Diwali at Library
Around 250 people came to the food-filled event at the Milpitas Library.
Hundreds gathered for colorful Dushara and Diwali celebration Thursday night at the Milpitas Library. Hosted by the Brahma Kumaris of Silicon Valley, a group that teaches yoga and meditation, Diwali is a Hindu holiday celebrating the victory of good over evil.
The Kumaris celebrated the festival of lights early, as the holiday actually falls on Oct. 26 this year. That's when millions of Hindus around the world celebrate, according to Hindu legend, the return of Prince Ram and his wife Sita from years of exile.
During the Diwali celebration families don new clothes and fill their homes with light to celebrate the victory and help usher in the goddess of prosperity, Lakshmi. They also spend time together conducting poojas (prayers), and enjoying meals.
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Dushara is usually celebrated prior to Diwali and celebrates the defeat of the evil king Ravan.
Among those in attendance were the mayor of Milpitas Jose Esteves and his wife Susan, Chief of Police, Dennis Graham and Milpitas Fire Chief, Brian Sturdivant.Β