Diwali/Deepavali

Diwali History

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated across India. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. During Diwali, homes and public spaces are illuminated with oil lamps and colorful lights. Rituals associated with the festival include the worship of deities like Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Exchanging gifts and sweets is also a crucial part of the celebration, fostering a sense of community and sharing.

Diwali has roots tracing back to ancient Hindu texts and traditions. The festival is linked to various historical and mythological events, such as the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, as depicted in the epic Ramayana. The celebration holds cultural and religious significance for Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs. For many, it marks the Hindu New Year, a time for renewal and resolution. Families undertake thorough cleaning and decoration of their homes in preparation for the festival to welcome prosperity and good fortune.

Observance of Diwali typically includes lighting oil lamps called diyas, performing religious rituals, and sharing festive meals with family and friends. Fireworks are a common feature, added to express joy and fervor. Diwali occurs over five days, usually in October or November, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. The third day is considered the main day of Diwali, known as Lakshmi Puja, dedicated to inviting the blessings of the goddess Lakshmi. The other days, including Dhanteras, Naraka Chaturdashi, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj, each hold their unique significance and rituals.

Facts about Diwali

• Diwali is typically a 5-day festival. The date given here reflects the 3rd day which is the main festival date and is reffered to Lakshmi Puja after a Hindu Goddess.
• Diwali commemorates the return of a deity known as Lord Rama from a 14-year exile. Lamps are lit to guide Lord Rama's and his family's way.
• A Diya, burned on Diwali, is an oil lamp made from clay. It is fueled by a cotton wick often dipped in oil.
• Diwali is also celebrated in honor of the Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity, and fortune, Lakshmi. According to Hindu mythology, Lakshmi emerged from the ocean during the churning of the sea, known as Samudra Manthan, on the night of Diwali. Devotees clean and decorate their homes to welcome the goddess and seek her blessings for prosperity.
• In recent years, there has been a growing awareness about the negative impact of pollution caused by firecrackers during Diwali. Many Indian cities, including the capital New Delhi, have implemented restrictions on the sale and use of firecrackers to improve air quality and protect the environment.

In the News and Trending in India for Diwali/Deepavali

Top things to do in India for Diwali

• Celebrate the first day of Diwali (Dhanteras) by stringing lights or placing candles around your home. This day marks the birthday of the Goddess Lakshimi.
• If you are a woman, celebrate the second day of Diwali (Naraka Chaturdasai) by creating Rangoli designs (colorful patterns made of dried flour and rice) on your floor, and paint your hands with henna designs. Naraka Chaturdasai is also often marked by religious devotions.
• Bursting fireworks and crackers is a popular Diwali tradition. People light fireworks to celebrate the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
• Rangoli is a traditional art form in which intricate patterns are created using colored powders, rice, or flower petals on the ground or floor. People create beautiful rangoli designs outside their homes and in public spaces to celebrate Diwali.