Celebrating Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas at VCC

Dear VCC community,

This time of year is especially meaningful to me because of Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas. Both are important celebrations rooted in ancient traditions and filled with the spirit of joy and reflection.

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant religious festivals for those in the Hindu, Jain and Sikh communities. The name Diwali comes from the Sanskrit term dipavali, meaning “row of lights”, which symbolizes the victory of light over darkness. For many, this five-day period is a time to honour the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, and decorate homes with candles and lamps to bring about prosperity. It’s also a time to cherish good over evil and embrace new beginnings. Gathering with loved ones around the dinner table is another way to make the occasion memorable and festive.

Bandi Chhor Divas is celebrated alongside Diwali and is known as a Sikh festival of liberation. It commemorates the triumph of the sixth Sikh Guru Hargobind, who was not only granted personal freedom from captivity but also managed to secure the release of 52 imprisoned kings. His selfless courage and focus on collective justice still resonate and inspire us today. In addition to the dazzling lights people display in their homes and at places of worship, this occasion is all about togetherness. People share food from the langar (community kitchen), listen to kirtans (devotional songs) and gather in merriment.

Both Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas symbolize the uplifting power of community. As we take time to illuminate our homes and gathering spaces, we are also reminded of the ripple effect kindness and compassion have in our lives.

As we celebrate, it’s equally important to pause and reflect on those less fortunate among us. Spreading generosity and joy are the greatest gifts we can offer. Let’s take these values forward and keep light in our lives year-round.

Join us for food, music and dance as we celebrate the festival of lights

Students & Community Development, in collaboration with VCC International Education and the Students’ Union of Vancouver Community College (SUVCC), are pleased to host annual events at the Downtown (October 21, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.) and Broadway (October 22, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.) campuses.

Join us for delicious snacks, refreshing drinks, and vibrant community spirit. You are welcome to wear your own traditional outfits for the occasion!

To all those who celebrate, I wish you a Happy Diwali and Saal Mubarak, and a joyful Bandi Chhor Divas!

With gratitude,

Ajay Patel 
President and CEO 
Vancouver Community College