For Aaron Jewan Singh, a 51-year-old music instructor and guru, Divali represents the enlightenment of the spirit through knowledge. Born in Marabella, Trinidad and Tobago, Singh has dedicated over four decades to mastering and teaching Indian classical music. Today, he is celebrated as one of the nation’s most revered musicians, sharing his passion and expertise with students across Trinidad, Canada, and the United States. This Divali, Singh’s mission is to ensure that the light of cultural knowledge continues to shine brightly, preserving the rich heritage of Indian classical and chutney music. To mark the occasion, he has released a new song titled *Happy Divali*. Singh believes that Divali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, equating that light with wisdom. Through his teachings and compositions, he sees himself as lighting a metaphorical *deya* (oil lamp) in the world, spreading hope and inspiration. Singh’s journey began in a musically rich household. His parents, both accomplished musicians, immersed him in rhythm and melody from a young age. By the age of five, he was already performing publicly, accompanying renowned vocalists on the *dholak*, a traditional hand drum. His talent quickly earned him recognition, and by his teens, he was a sought-after accompanist for top performers across the Caribbean and North America. Despite facing cultural and financial challenges after migrating to the U.S. in 1997, Singh remained steadfast in his commitment to music. In 2019, he co-founded the Trinidad Classical Music Foundation (TCM) with Priya Paray, a young singer dedicated to mastering Trinidad’s classical traditions. Through TCM, Singh mentors a new generation of musicians, ensuring that the rhythms of Trinidad continue to resonate globally. His dream is to leave a lasting legacy, keeping the music and culture alive for future generations. This Divali, Singh sends a message of hope and unity, urging everyone to celebrate the festival as a symbol of renewal and strength.
