To the Shared Feast of Deepavali

Hands passing food box to others. ©ElvieLins

Last week at Deepavali, I witnessed the ceremony, and it felt truly wonderful. What struck me most was discovering the food-giving at the back of the temple.

I noticed people from various backgrounds enjoying the food — not necessarily celebrating Deepavali but eager to experience the incredible flavors.

The photos I captured tell the story, hands passing food to others, one person holding a plate while another pours sauce onto it.

A Poem To the Shared Feast of Deepavali

©ElvieLins

In the heart of light’s own glow,
Hands reach, gentle and slow,
Passing warmth, passing grace,
Food that finds every face.

Here, no borders, no name,
Just souls sharing the same flame,
Plates filled high, the sauce poured with care,
Each bite is a blessing, each taste a prayer.

Strangers gather, smiles unfold,
Stories swapped, tales retold.
For on this day, all come to see,
The gift of Deepavali is sweet and free.