Deepavali: origins, stories and current practices of the biggest Indian festival

Deepavali: origens, histórias e práticas atuais da maior festa indiana

Party 40€

Saturday 24 October · 14:30

A two-session course on Deepavali, exploring its origins, mythical narratives and current practices, with João Pedro Oliveira.

Brief Introduction DEEPAVALI COURSE: origins, stories and current practices of the biggest Indian festival With João Pedro Oliveira DATE | Saturdays | 24 and 31 October TIME | 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm PARTICIPANTS | Min. 10 PRICE | €40 Session 1 - The Ramayana and the return of light: Sita, Rama in the Deepavali imaginary In the first session, one of the most influential narratives associated with Deepavali, particularly in northern India, will be explored: the return of Rama to Ayodhya, accompanied by Sita and Laksmana, after fourteen years of exile, marked by the city lit with oil lamps. The session presents Ayodhya as a central place in the Ramayana imaginary, allowing an understanding of how "light" becomes a collective gesture of welcome, justice and renewal. The relationship between this epic Ayodhya and the historical and contemporary Ayodhya(s) existing in different contexts will also be explored, discussing how the epic is inscribed in geography, memory and cultural practices. Finally, the session invites the public to get to know the Ramayana as one of the most influential texts in the cultural universe of South and Southeast Asia, highlighting its legacy and how it continues to inspire rituals, literature, theatre, music and dance in multiple regions. Session 2 - The many narratives of Deepavali In this second session, the origin of the Deepavali (Diwali) festival will be presented. Starting from the idea that Deepavali was consolidated over centuries from local traditions, this session invites the public to explore the main narratives and mythical-religious frameworks associated with the festive period, involving different deities and legends depending on the region and community. The session also addresses the multi-religious dimension of Deepavali: although it is widely recognised as a major Hindu festival, it also has its own meanings in Jainism and Sikhism; and, in some specific contexts, it is also celebrated by Buddhist communities. Finally, a presentation will be made on the rituals and practices related to the festival, highlighting differences and continuities between regions of the Indian subcontinent and diaspora communities. João Pedro Oliveira holds a PhD in Culture Studies from the Catholic University of Portugal, founding member of Asian Hub and fellow of the Oriente Foundation. He regularly teaches on Asian cultural and religious traditions, as well as dedicating himself to the practice, performance and dissemination of world music. In case of cancellation: The full registration fee will be refunded if cancellation is communicated up to 8 working days before the activity. After that date, a refund can only be considered if the place is filled or in cases of illness, accident, or other duly proven force majeure circumstances. If the activity does not take place due to lack of participants, or for any other reason, the registration fee will be refunded in full. For more information contact Prices Entry - €40