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MI Hindu Community Food Drive Campaign

Michigan Hindu Community Pays Gratitude as Part of Sewa Diwali Food Drive Campaign

Bharathi THAMMI Reddy, Neighbor

Posted Sat, Jan 6, 2024 at 4:53 pm ET|Updated Sat, Jan 6, 2024 at 5:01 pm ET

SEWA- Sewa is an integral concept in Hinduism, derived from the Sanskrit word sev-, which means "to serve” the community. Sewa in Hinduism signifies selfless service.

Diwali, also referred as Deepavali, is a festival observed in many different parts of the globe. It’s an occasion where houses are illuminated up with lamps, many varieties of sweet foods are prepared and shared. But, beneath the glistening lights and glitz, Diwali has a more profound significance. It is a ‘celebration of the triumph of light over darkness, of knowledge over ignorance, and of good over evil’. In conformity to this, the act of giving is central to this celebration, encapsulating the genuine essence of Diwali. Diwali in the past is associated with many tales and battles against evil. However, it is fight against contemporary evils such as inequalities and poverty.

Diwali and charitable donations; the tradition is not new. In the popular culture of Hinduism, festivals and auspicious occasions were always associated with donations of some kind, more often food, particularly for those in need. This benevolent tradition has been passed down through generations and continues to be an important part of the celebrations even today. Donating during Diwali is seen to be a way of purifying one's soul and bringing happiness to those who are less fortunate. This tradition of donation during Diwali has evolved and expanded. It's no longer just about distributing food. The charitable initiatives tend to reach out to diverse populations, irrespective of their faith or ethnic backgrounds thereby embracing diversity through donations. This is the most beautiful aspects of Diwali charity as it transcends religious and cultural boundaries. Diwali, while rooted in Hindu traditions, is celebrated by people of various faiths and backgrounds in many parts of the world while creating a sense of unity and promoting an atmosphere of togetherness and respect for one another across every ethnic community.

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The objective of Sewa Diwali is to promote the joyous and illuminating essence of Diwali to encourage unity and Sewa (selfless service) for the betterment of humanity. As part of this effort, the Sewa Diwali Team, USA distributed over 6,175 (Six thousand one hundred and seventy-five) pounds of nonperishable food in Michigan.

Diwali reminds us all that each and every smallest effort of generosity helps to make the entire universe a more pleasant, happier space.