DIWALI

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and other parts of the world. It is a five-day festival, celebrated during the Hindu month of Kartik (usually in October or November).

Diwali is often referred to as the "Festival of Lights," as it involves the lighting of lamps and candles, and the display of fireworks. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and is celebrated to honor Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, the demon king.

During Diwali, people clean and decorate their homes, prepare special foods and sweets, exchange gifts with friends and family, and light oil lamps and candles. It is also a time for prayers and visits to temples.

In addition to its religious significance, Diwali has also become a cultural festival that is celebrated by people of all religions and backgrounds in India and around the world.

History behind Diwali

The history behind Diwali can be traced back to ancient India and has different religious and cultural significance in various parts of the country.

One of the most well-known stories associated with Diwali is the story of Lord Rama, the prince of Ayodhya who defeated Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, and rescued his wife Sita from his captivity. The story goes that after 14 years of exile, Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana on the day of Diwali. The people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps to welcome their beloved prince and celebrate his return, which became a tradition and is still followed today.

Another story associated with Diwali is the story of the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura, who had imprisoned many princesses. It is said that Lord Krishna killed Narakasura on the day of Diwali and freed the princesses, which is why people celebrate Diwali as a victory of good over evil.

In some parts of India, Diwali is also celebrated as the day when Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, was born. It is believed that on the night of Diwali, Goddess Lakshmi visits homes that are clean and brightly lit, bringing wealth and prosperity with her.

Overall, Diwali is a festival that celebrates the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. It is a time for people to come together, celebrate, and spread happiness and positivity.

What to do on Diwali?

Diwali is a five-day festival that involves various customs and traditions. Here are some of the things you can do during Diwali:

Clean and decorate your home: People clean their homes thoroughly before Diwali and decorate it with rangolis, lights, and flowers. It is believed that a clean and decorated home attracts wealth and prosperity.

Light lamps and candles: Diwali is known as the "Festival of Lights" and lighting diyas (lamps), candles, and electric lights is an important ritual during the festival. Lighting lamps symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is believed to bring positivity and happiness to homes.

Offer prayers and perform puja: Diwali is a time for spiritual renewal and people offer prayers to deities like Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Rama. Performing puja and offering sweets and flowers is considered auspicious during Diwali.

Prepare special foods and sweets: Diwali is also a time for feasting and people prepare special foods and sweets like laddoos, barfis, and chaklis. Sharing food and sweets with friends and family is also a part of the festival.

Exchange gifts: Giving and receiving gifts is a common tradition during Diwali. People exchange sweets, chocolates, clothes, and other items as a gesture of love and appreciation.

Burst fireworks: While bursting crackers and fireworks is a popular tradition during Diwali, it is important to ensure safety and minimize noise pollution. You can opt for eco-friendly crackers and limit the use of fireworks to ensure a safe and peaceful celebration.

Overall, Diwali is a time for joy, togetherness, and spiritual renewal. You can choose to participate in the rituals and traditions that resonate with you and celebrate the festival in a meaningful way.