Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in India.
It’s a time of joy, unity, and the triumph of light over darkness. The festival, which usually falls between October and November, is marked by vibrant decorations, family gatherings, and a multitude of traditions that have been passed down through generations. Let’s dive into the essence of Diwali, its origins, customs, and how it is celebrated today.
Origins of Diwali
The origins of Diwali are rooted in ancient Hindu mythology and history. There are several stories associated with its celebration, with the most prominent being the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. According to the epic Ramayana,
Lord Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, returned to their kingdom after defeating the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps along the streets and in their homes to welcome their beloved king, marking the victory of
good over evil and light over darkness.
Another significant legend is that of Lord Krishna, who defeated the demon Narakasura, freeing 16,000 women from his
captivity. The day of his victory is celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi, which falls a day before Diwali.
Five Days of Celebration
Diwali is not just a single day event but a five-day celebration, each day having its own significance and rituals:
Dhanteras: The first day of Diwali is dedicated to wealth and prosperity. On this day, people buy new items, particularly gold and silver, as it is believed to bring good luck. Homes and businesses are thoroughly cleaned and decorated with rangoli (colored designs on the floor) and flowers.
Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali): The second day commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. People take a holy bath and wear new clothes. In the evening, small oil lamps are lit around the house.
Diwali: The third day is the main day of celebration. Families gather for the Lakshmi Puja, where they pray to Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and prosperity. Homes are illuminated with oil lamps and fairy lights, and firecrackers are burst to celebrate the joyous occasion.
Govardhan Puja (Annakut): The fourth day marks the day Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers from torrential rains. On this day, food offerings are made to the gods, and a variety of dishes are prepared and shared among family and friends.
Bhai Dooj: The fifth and final day of Diwali is dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brothers’ well-being and perform aarti, while brothers give gifts to their sisters.
Modern-Day Celebrations
Diwali has evolved over the years, blending traditional customs with modern elements.
Here’s how people celebrate Diwali today:
- Decorations: Homes are adorned with a myriad of lights, both traditional oil lamps and modern LED lights. Rangolis are drawn at the entrance, and flowers like marigold are used extensively for decoration.
- Shopping and Gifting: Diwali is a major shopping season in India. People buy new clothes, sweets, and gifts for their loved ones. It’s also common for companies to give bonuses and gifts to their employees.
- Sweets and Savories: Diwali is synonymous with delicious food. Traditional sweets like ladoos, barfis, and jalebis are prepared and shared among family and friends. Savory snacks like samosas and chaklis are also popular.
- Firecrackers: Bursting firecrackers is a long-standing tradition of Diwali, symbolizing the joy and excitement of the festival. However, in recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the environmental impact of firecrackers, leading to a shift towards more eco-friendly celebrations.
- Community and Charity: Diwali is also a time for giving back to the community. Many people engage in charitable activities, donating food, clothes, and money to those in need. This spirit of generosity and compassion is central to the festival.
Significance of Diwali
Diwali holds deep spiritual significance for Hindus, as well as for followers of other religions like Jainism, Sikhism, and Buddhism:
Hinduism: For Hindus, Diwali signifies the return of Lord Rama, the victory of Lord Krishna, and the worship of Goddess Lakshmi. It is a time for self-reflection, prayer, and the strengthening of familial bonds.
Jainism: Jains celebrate Diwali as the day Lord Mahavira, the last Tirthankara, attained Nirvana. It is a time for introspection, forgiveness, and renewal.
Sikhism: Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, which coincides with Diwali, marking the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from imprisonment. The Golden Temple in Amritsar is beautifully illuminated on this day.
Buddhism: Some Buddhists, particularly those in Nepal, celebrate Diwali as part of their New Year festivities, integrating it with local customs and traditions.
Diwali Around the World
Diwali is celebrated with much fervor not only in India but also in many other countries:
Nepal: Known as Tihar, the festival is celebrated with similar customs, including the worship of animals like dogs and cows.
Sri Lanka: Diwali is marked by lighting oil lamps and bursting firecrackers, similar to Indian traditions.
Malaysia: Known as Hari Diwali, it is a public holiday, and people celebrate with prayers, feasts, and fireworks.
Singapore: Little India in Singapore becomes a hub of activity during Diwali, with vibrant decorations and cultural performances.
Mauritius, Fiji, and Trinidad and Tobago: These countries with significant Indian populations celebrate Diwali with great enthusiasm, integrating local customs with traditional Indian practices.
The Essence of Diwali
At its core, Diwali is a celebration of light, love, and togetherness. It transcends religious and cultural boundaries, bringing people together in a spirit of joy and unity. The festival’s enduring appeal lies in its universal message of the triumph of good over evil and the importance of family and community.
In today’s fast-paced world, Diwali serves as a reminder to pause, reflect, and cherish the relationships that enrich our lives. It’s a time to spread happiness, share our blessings, and look forward to a brighter future. Whether it’s through the flicker of an oil lamp, the burst of a firecracker, or the warmth of a family gathering, Diwali continues to light up our lives in countless meaningful ways.
Happy Diwali! May the festival of lights bring you joy, prosperity, and peace