The Worshipful Company of Glovers of London

City of London Diwali Celebrations

Written by: THOMAS RICHARD MORRIS | Stories

When I first arrived with my Regiment in 1968 it was dusk on a warm tropical night and the Officers Mess was lit up with small candles, as the Hindu festival of Diwali was being celebrated. It was therefore a special pleasure to be invited to attend on zoom the City celebration of this festival on 18th November.


My understanding of the history of the Goddess Laxmi, responsible for prosperity and wealth; or of Lord Shiva, the destroyer of the world, or indeed of the other Gods like Brahma and Vishnu, is far from clear. However as was explained by Satya Minhas, the Hindu priest speaking on this webinar, Diwali represents the conquest of good over evil, it is therefore a celebration for all, a time to share with family and others, to relight our good intentions and our lives.


And both Hemal Randerwala and Dipna Anand who also spoke, were clearly practising these ideals. Dipna with her cookery and recipes and Hemal with his outreach to all in need with food supplies and free meals particularly to those who had lost their jobs through the pandemic closures, regardless of their religion or beliefs.

Whilst we invitees could not speak or see who else might be watching, it was nevertheless a privilege to be involved and a pleasure to feel the sense of welcome and inclusion that all involved extended to us. I wonder if any other Master Glovers ever had this privilege?
 
 

 
Contact

Alistair Rogers
Cornerstone Cottage,
Ludwell,
Nr Shaftesbury,
SP7 9ND

clerk@thegloverscompany.org

The Worshipful Company of Glovers (incorporated by Royal Charter on 10-Sep 1638) is a Livery Company of the City of London, 62nd in order of precedence.

The Worshipful Company of Glovers of London Charitable Trust (charity number 269091). The Worshipful Company of Glovers of London Charitable Endowment (charity number 1142506).