Diwali 2009: At Crown Regency Hotel & Towers

CEBU, Philippines - Diwali, or Deepavali, is the Hindu festival of lights. The term Deepavali is of Sanskrit origin, which means an array of lamps. The word “deep” means clay lamp and “avali” means an array. This Indian celebration signifies the victory of good over evil within. Today it is celebrated by Sikhs, Jains, Hindus, and even some Buddhists all around the globe — the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines.

According to the Vedic culture, the message of Diwali is to eradicate the world from darkness and lead it towards the self-illuminated light within. Here, each individual is likened to a brightly lit clay lamp. The message is to collectively participate in the Endeavour, as it is not just the effort of one individual. The differences between the high and low are forgotten, as the aim is to usher in equanimity and equality in society.

At the Crown Regency Hotel & Towers’ Stratus Function Hall, the Diwali celebration last October 18 was a short-notice gathering of Cebu-based Indian nationals, most of whom were Club Ultima members themselves along with their relatives by affinity or consanguinity and, of course, the universal adherence to extended family ties.

The gathering was intentionally scheduled late into the evening as Indian ladies need more time to dress up for every special occasion as the Diwali celebration. And, wow! They all looked so stunningly beautiful! The gentlemen too cannot be outdonned. They were all stylishly manly in their coats & ties. The younger ones also donned a fashion statement all their own.

Attractive is the most apt adjective to describe everyone. Ahhh, and yes, the food! One well-heeled lady who couldn’t help but ask who prepared this special buffet for them heartily said, “Deliciously authentic Indian cuisine!” Thanks to the expertise of Chef Donesa! Crown Regency Hotel & Towers literally “borrowed” Chef Don from Crown Regency Residences & Suites in far-away Mactan to cook for the Diwali celebration. Her authentic Indian recipes included spicy tomato soup, vegetable Biryani, Punjabidhal, Plar Paneer, Dal Vodei, Alootikki with Chole, Vegetable Samosa with Chutney, Shrimp Curry, Chicken Tekki and mixed vegetables Indian style. Dessert included Gajjal Halva and Gulab Jamon. While they had dinner, GM Hitesh Sampat, an Indian national himself, was on the microphone and introduced the rather shy chef to the guests who afforded her the normal gesture of showing their sincerest appreciation.

 As time ticked deep in the night, merriment of social drinking and joyful dancing simply served as the prelude to a successful event that will be remembered for a lifetime as they all await for Diwali Dhamaka 2010!