Walking in charity’s ‘avenue of light’

KUALA LUMPUR – One may be forgiven for thinking this year’s Deepavali celebration is dampened by the Covid-19 pandemic and ensuing economic downturn.

However, Mother A. Mangalam, who has devoted the better part of her life to humanitarian causes, including raising orphans and homeless children, does not see it this way.

At 94, the life president of Pure Life Society brimmed with enthusiasm and benevolence during a recent in-house presentation of goodies and clothes to the young residents of the society’s orphanage, in conjunction with the Festival of Lights.

Present at the orphanage, located in Jalan Puchong, was society vice-president Datin Poonam Kukreja.

It is clear to see that Mother Mangalam’s spirit of giving is behind her radiant nature.

Speaking to The Vibes, she said the true essence of Deepavali is to light up hearts and bring bliss to oneself.

And, the best way to do it is through charity.

“Do something that brings happiness to another soul.”

She recounted the origins of Deepavali, telling the story of Lord Krishna’s parade after vanquishing the demon Narakasura, with crowds bearing torches thronging an avenue to celebrate the victory of “light over darkness”.

“Deepavali means an avenue of light. Spiritually and philosophically, it means we must always walk in the avenue of light. Light conquers darkness.”

She said charitable values were instilled in her by her family when she was a child.

“I still remember, as a young girl in Singapore, my grandpa, who was the head of the family, would change money into 1 cent coins.

“We used to have 1 cent coins before. With 1 cent, you could get two ice creams. Half a cent also had value.

“There would be lots of beggars coming in, and every member of the family would give them 1 cent.”

She was conferred the Merdeka Award in 2010 for “her outstanding contribution to promoting the welfare of the underprivileged, and for fostering national unity”.

Nearly 2,000 children have passed through the doors of Pure Life Society’s orphanage since it was established in 1952.

“Always remember, whatever difficulties come in life, there is our connection to the supreme one,” said Mother Mangalam.

“When you connect yourself, everything will fall into place.”

She lamented how some celebrations linked to Deepavali have led to a culture of partying, deviating from the festival’s original purpose.

“The celebration has somewhat lost its spiritual meaning. These days, it involves parties where alcohol is served.” – The Vibes, November 14, 2020