Happy Deepavali to all of you.

The Story, simplified

There are many reasons people celebrate Diwali and the story of Prince Rama and Sita is one of them, often recited to children over the festival period.

Rama was exiled from his home for 14 years by his father, King Dashratha, who ruled over the kingdom of Ayodhya. Rama’s stepmother Queen Kaikeyi had wanted her sons to become King, not Dashratha’s eldest sons Rama and Lakshmana. She forced the King to send the two into exile. They obeyed and moved with Rama’s wife Sita to live in the forest.

One day, the demon Ravana kidnapped Sita and it was up to Rama, his brother Lakshmana and the monkey king, Hanuman, to save her. After a fierce battle between Rama, Lakshmana and Hanuman with Ravana’s armies, the demon was defeated. As 14 years had passed, they then returned home with Sita. Oil lamps were lit to guide them on their way home and to rejoice their victory.

Events at SVKB

Oct 17 – Deepavali Day 1 – Special Pooja

Oct 18 – Deepavali Day 2 – Special Pooja

Oct 19 – Deepavali Day 3 – Amavasya (Full Moon Day)