Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ at Calvary. It is a religious holiday observed primarily by Christians, and is a public holiday in many countries.
Candles in the Church of Our Lady of Bethlehem on La Rambla in Barcelona, Spain. Photo credit: John Tan
Here’s wishing everyone a great Easter weekend.
Deepavali, or Diwali, is the Hindu festival of lights and is a public holiday in countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka and Nepal.
The festival of lights is celebrated with light as the former subjects of Narakasura welcomed the victorious return of Krishna (on the night of a new moon) back to their city by lighting lamps and lanterns. I took this photo in a house in Barcelona, Spain back in 2009 with an Olympus E450.
The word “Diwali” is the shortened form of “Deepavali” which literally means “row of lamps”.
The festival commemorates the victory of Lord Krishna over the tyrant King Narakasura in ancient India and is symbolic of the triumph of good over evil – and light over darkness.
Indians wear new clothes and paint their hands with henna, treat themselves and each other to sweets and snacks, while the streets are alit with bazaars and light to celebrate the festival.
