RAWALPINDI: The Krishna Mandir in Saddar Bazaar was buzzing with activity on Tuesday, as Hindus from the twin cities thronged to celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights.

The temple is not the most prominent of buildings, located in a small corner of the bazaar, but comes to life on religious festivals.

The temple was illuminated to mark Diwali, and bhajans, religious songs, could be heard outside the temple.

Diyas, small earthen lamps that are synonymous with Diwali, were used to light up every corner of the temple.

Diwali celebrates the return of Ram, his wife Sita and his brother Lakhshman from a 14 year exile.

Although the festival fell on Oct 30, the main Diwali celebration in the city was held on Tuesday.

“Diwali is a five day festival. The first day starts with the purification of houses and prayers. Traditionally, on the first day, Hindus buy new utensils and offer pooja for milk,” Jai Ram, the priest of Krishna temple, told Dawn.

He explained that on the second day, Hindus light earthen lamps outside their home and pray to Ganesh.

On the third day, homes are decorated and prayers are offered to Lakshmi, and on the fourth day a Vishnu pooja is arranged. On the fifth day, a ritual known as bhai dooj is carried out, in which brothers go to their sisters’ homes and give them gifts.

He said the community chose the fifth day for Diwali celebrations this year, to emphasise that brothers should learn how to respect their sisters.

He said the selection of the day was done through consultations with community elders, after with the Evacuee Trust Property Board was informed and made the arrangements.

On Tuesday, the formal prayer began with Jai Ram narrating a summarised version of the Ramayana – the story of Ram – followed by bhajans recited by locals.

“Although all Hindus know about the story of Lord Ram, the message behind this was to keep promises, respect elders and stand up against evil forces and purify the earth from bad, as Lord Ram killed Ravan, who suppressed the people,” he told worshippers.

Jag Mohan Arora said the festival symbolises the victory of good over evil, and the lighting of the earth lamps is a sign of celebration and hope for mankind. He said people should follow this and spend their lives accordingly.

The priest also prayed for the prosperity of the country, and the wellbeing of the people living in the country.

Published in Dawn, November 2nd, 2016