Diwali: A Celebration of Culture, Community, and Personal Growth
Written by: Aditi Dewan
As an Indian American woman, Diwali holds a special place in my heart. Not only does it have the significance of an Indian holiday, but also the significance of remembering the roots of my culture. This festival of lights represents my cultural heritage and, most importantly, the strong sense of community and connection that I cherish. Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most celebrated festivals across India, and one of the most significant festivals in Hindu culture. Its significance goes beyond just religion: it signifies the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.
Diwali is a time when my family and I come together to celebrate our rich Indian heritage. We decorate our home with colorful rangoli designs, light oil lamps, and indulge in mouthwatering traditional sweets. The festivities bring back cherished childhood memories and remind me of the cultural values that have been passed down through generations. Diwali, for me, is a reminder of the importance of family, tradition, and the enduring connections that make my Indian American experience so unique.
Beyond its cultural significance, Diwali brings communities together. It's a time when friends and neighbors from various backgrounds join in the celebration. Every year, my parents tell me stories about how their work at the office is paused for an hour to indulge in Indian culture. The exchange of gifts, sweets, and the joyous spirit of Diwali unite people, transcending cultural boundaries. This intermingling of cultures enriches my perspective as an Indian, reinforcing the beauty of diversity and inclusivity.
Diwali's deeper meaning lies in its symbolism. It's a time for introspection and self-improvement. The lighting of lamps signifies the removal of inner darkness and ignorance, guiding us toward the path of knowledge and enlightenment. As a second-generation woman, Diwali encourages me to embrace my roots and seek a better understanding of my cultural heritage.
I also want to take a moment to express my gratitude for my recent internship experience with Anise Health. Working directly with Angel Wang, I had the opportunity to learn and grow in the marketing field. Angel's mentorship and the support of my mentors, including Alice, Nisha, and Nikkei, and peer Saachi, were invaluable. This experience has not only enriched my professional skills but also provided a platform for personal growth and development.
Throughout the internship, we were given multiple projects and tasks to work on including outreaching and increasing engagement through TikTok and writing articles from interviews. I learned about culturally responsive care and the ways that Anise Health, specifically, tackles the disparities in care for POC. The psychotherapy webinar I co-hosted allowed me to delve into topics I wouldn't have otherwise known about including intergenerational trauma and the schools of thoughts in psychology.
Much like the traditional lamps during Diwali, my internship at Anise Health shone a light on my path, illuminating my career goals and personal aspirations. This confluence of culture and career development has shaped my identity, making me deeply appreciative of the opportunities, connections, and experiences that have enriched my journey as an Indian American woman.
