What is Diwali?

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and among Hindu communities worldwide. Known as the “Festival of Lights”, Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. The word “Deepavali” comes from Sanskrit: “Deepa” meaning light or lamp, and “Avali” meaning row – literally, a “row of lamps.”

Historical and Mythological Significance

Diwali has deep roots in Hindu mythology, with several stories associated with it:

1. Return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya
   • According to the epic Ramayana, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana.
   • The people of Ayodhya lit rows of lamps to celebrate his homecoming, which is why lighting lamps is a central part of Diwali.
2. Goddess Lakshmi’s Worship
   • Diwali is also associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
   • On the night of Diwali, devotees perform Lakshmi Puja, praying for financial well-being and blessings for the coming year.
3. Victory of Lord Krishna over Narakasura
   • Another legend links Diwali to Lord Krishna defeating the demon Narakasura, freeing people from oppression and evil forces.

How Diwali is Celebrated

Diwali is a five-day festival, each day having its own significance:

1. Dhanteras
   • The first day marks wealth and prosperity. People buy gold, silver, and new utensils as a symbol of good fortune.
2. Naraka Chaturdashi / Choti Diwali
   • Celebrated as the victory of Lord Krishna over Narakasura.
   • Homes are cleaned and decorated with lights to ward off evil.
3. Lakshmi Puja / Main Diwali Day
   • The most important day, dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi.
   • People light oil lamps (diyas), decorate homes with rangoli, burst firecrackers, and perform prayers for wealth and happiness.
4. Govardhan Puja / Annakut
   • Celebrated in some regions to honor Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from torrential rains.
5. Bhai Dooj
   • The festival ends with Bhai Dooj, celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brothers’ well-being, and brothers give gifts in return.

Traditions and Customs

• Lighting Diyas and Candles: Homes, streets, and temples are illuminated to symbolize the removal of darkness and spiritual awakening.
• Rangoli: Decorative patterns made with colored powders, flowers, or rice to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.
• Fireworks: Bursting firecrackers to drive away evil spirits and celebrate joy.
• Feasting and Sweets: Families prepare traditional sweets like ladoos, barfis, and jalebis, sharing them with neighbors and friends.
• Exchanging Gifts: Diwali is also a time for gifting loved ones, strengthening social and familial bonds.

Cultural and Social Importance

• Diwali is not only a religious festival but also a cultural celebration that promotes family bonding, social harmony, and the spirit of giving.
• It is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists in India and across the world, though each community may have different historical and spiritual reasons.
• The festival is considered auspicious for new beginnings, which is why businesses often start their new financial year around Diwali.

Modern-Day Diwali

• Today, Diwali has become a festival of joy and community celebration. Markets are decorated with lights, cities host grand fireworks displays, and people participate in cultural programs and fairs.
• Despite modernization, the core message of Diwali remains the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness.

In Short

Diwali is more than just a festival of lights. It is a celebration of life, morality, and spiritual awakening, bringing together family, community, and devotion. The lamps, prayers, sweets, and fireworks all symbolize the victory of knowledge, virtue, and prosperity, making it one of the most cherished festivals in Hinduism.