WATERTOWN, MA— The Brahma Kumaris Meditation Center in Watertown marked this year’s Diwali with a unique celebration that focused on the festival’s deeper message of light, peace, and renewal. More than 120 people of all ages and backgrounds came together for an evening of reflection, creativity, and community.
Unlike traditional celebrations centered on lights and fireworks, the event—called Igniting the Light of Hope—invited guests to experience Diwali as a journey of inner discovery. Visitors moved through five interactive exhibits that encouraged them to look beyond outer rituals and connect with the festival’s spiritual meaning.
The first exhibit, “Living Light,” guided participants to see themselves and others as souls—points of light beyond physical identity. Next, “Inner Treasures” helped guests explore their inner strengths and virtues through hands-on activities, including crafting colorful “bands of light.”
The journey then moved into guided silence with “Supreme Light,” where soft music and meditation helped participants connect with the divine. The final stop, “Return to Divinity,” featured serene images of Lakshmi and Narayana and invited reflection on how everyone can embody peace, purity, and harmony in daily life.
The second part of the evening featured cultural performances and inspiring talks. Students from the Samskriti School of Dance presented elegant Kuchipudi dances celebrating divine qualities through expressive movement and storytelling.
Rita Cleary, Co-Coordinator of the Brahma Kumaris Centers in New England, spoke about the importance of rekindling one’s inner light during challenging times. “In a world filled with uncertainty, it’s vital to recharge and spread the light of peace and hope,” she shared.
Her message was followed by a peaceful group meditation led by Dev Lingadevaru, also a Co-Coordinator of the BK Centers. Each participant lit a small tealight, symbolizing the awakening of their inner light and connection to the divine.
The evening concluded with a warm vegetarian dinner, lovingly prepared and shared among attendees. The meal reflected the event’s theme—reminding everyone that food made with love nourishes both body and soul.
As the lights dimmed, participants carried home more than memories—they carried a quiet sense of peace and purpose. The celebration reminded all that while outer lamps may fade, the true light of Diwali shines from within.
