I just got back from Melbourne after spending some time with my granddaughter, and it hit me—Deepavali is coming up quickly on November 1! Maybe you’ve never heard of Deepavali before. Many of my Indian friends have told me it’s like Christmas. Honestly, I don’t think it’s anything like Christmas, but for many Indian and Sri Lankan families, it’s one of the most important celebrations of the year.

I made a card for you to give to your Hindu friends.

If you don’t know anyone who celebrates Deepavali, this might be the perfect time to head to your favorite Indian restaurant. Order some delicious vegetarian dishes, enjoy the experience, and share one of these special cards with the staff.

What’s on the card?

The card draws on the Deepavali theme of light triumphing over darkness and introduces them to Lord Shri Jesus. You might be wondering why I used the phrase “Lord Shri Jesus” instead of just “Jesus.” The term "Shri" is a respectful title often used in Indian culture to honor someone deeply revered—similar to how we honor Jesus as our Lord.

The card also mentions Kalyug, which in Hindu belief is the present age marked by inner struggles and moral decay. Many Hindus believe that this darkness will eventually be dispelled through divine intervention. This connects beautifully to the message of Jesus as the Light of the World, offering hope and renewal to those who follow Him.

You’ll also notice a line about bowing one’s head at someone’s feet. In Indian culture, this is a gesture of respect, humility, and reverence—much like how we humbly come before God in prayer.

What happens next?

Some people may be open to a deeper conversation after receiving the card. Here are a few gentle follow-up questions to help guide the conversation:

• “What do you usually do to celebrate Deepavali?”
• “How do you experience light overcoming darkness in your life?”
• “Do you ever feel like things are out of balance, like in Kalyug?”
• “Have you ever heard about the teachings of Jesus?  Can I share my one my favourites?”

If they are curious and want to explore more, the card includes a QR code that links to guru.mylanguage.net.au. The website offers videos, articles, and Bible study outlines—available in multiple Indian languages—that explore the life and teachings of Jesus in ways that resonate with Hindu thought.

So print a few cards, keep them handy, and use this as an opportunity to build new connections. Whether it sparks a meaningful conversation or simply plants a seed, it’s a small way to bring light to someone’s life.

Let's pray:

Lord Jesus, thank you for the many peoples who have moved into our neighbourhoods.  Give us wisdom in knowing how to commuicate the Gospel in ways that make sense to them.  May our Hindu friends and neighbours see Your beauty and goodness and may they be drawn to the love and forgiveness which you offer.  We are so grateful that you are coming back to transform ALL things.  Until then, may we be ever mindful that EVERYONE needs to hear the message of what You have done.  Amen.