The Corporate Diwali
Bringing India to the World
For the Corporate Diwali (TCD), it all started when...
The founder and brainchild behind The Corporate Diwali (TCD), Manisha Mundhra Beriwala, was exposed to longstanding cultural practices and traditions as part of growing up in a close-knit Marwari family with prominent society-contributing lineage. Through several cultural indoctrinations and exposure to traditions that were passed down several generations, Beriwala learned the meaning of legacy and heritage.
A fond memory is of annual Diwali celebrations, where family and friends would gather and share home-made meals and treats, don elegant outfits, and participate in religious rituals to welcome Goddess Lakshmi into their lives.
Immigrating to the United States, Beriwala traded in culture and traditions in search for a new life in the land of opportunity. The trade-off meant she would leave behind everything she had learned and experienced growing up to fulfill career goals and aspirations. Over the course of time, the lack of a sense of cultural belonging, the boisterous annual celebrations, and the community feeling left a void in her heart. The sense of unfulfilled purpose marked the beginning of the TCD journey!
What is Diwali? The Light of Your Life
Diwali, commonly known as the ‘Festival of Lights’ is a religious Hindu festival and ancient holiday that has gained prominence around the world in recent years. It is one of the few holidays that has gained understanding and anticipation across many cultures and societies. The festival pays homage to the Hindu goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, and many hope and pray for light and prosperity in their lives. Diwali also marks the beginning of the financial year in India. The festival has many interpretations amongst Indians based on their religious and cultural beliefs, but a common theme that prevails among all is the “victory of good over evil.” Those with more secular views observe Diwali as a time to gather with their families, exchange gifts, prepare delicious feasts and sweets, and decorate their homes with diyas (clay lamps) and rangoli (intricate patters on the floor created using colored powders or sand).
Diwali is a hindu festival of lights. Also called Deepawali, “deep” means “light” and “avali” means “a row to become a row of lights” It’s a celebration of good over evil to embrace the inner divine light, by lighting a diya (lamp of hope). The celebration of Diwali stretches back to 2,500 years. It’s the largest Indian festival which illuminates with its brilliance and dazzles with joy. It is celebrated based on the ancient Indian myth of King Rama’s return to Ayodhya after he defeated Ravana,the Demon by lighting rows of clay lamps. It’s also said to be celebrated as the day Lord Krishna defeated Demon Narakasura. The festival marks the day that Lord Vishnu, the Preserver sent the demon King Bali to rule the nether world. An elaborate five day long celebration takes place with the worship of lady goddess Lakshmi, goddess of wealth, fortune and prosperity.
Diwali as Diversity
We are all different. Some differences are easy to see: height, hairstyle, eye color, etc. Other differences that are harder to notice can be favorite foods, fears, and special skills. Interestingly, the way we see the world is also different. A successful social community in which individuals of different race, ethnicity, religious beliefs, socio-economic status, language, and geographical origin bring their different knowledge, background, experience, and interest for the benefit for the whole community is the role of Diwali diversity. Diwali's spiritual significance gives and forgives, rises and shines, unites and unifies, prosper and progresses, and illuminates your inner self from darkness unto light
