Diwali: What It Is And Why It's Celebrated

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Post on Nov 01, 2024

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Diwali: What It Is and Why It's Celebrated

Diwali, also known as the "Festival of Lights," is one of the most significant and joyous festivals celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains across the world. It's a time for celebration, feasting, and the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.

The Significance of Diwali

Diwali is a five-day festival, and each day holds a unique significance:

Day 1: Dhanteras: This day marks the start of Diwali and is dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People purchase gold, silver, and other precious items on this day to attract good fortune.

Day 2: Choti Diwali (Small Diwali): On this day, people worship Yama, the god of death, and pray for a long and healthy life. It's also the day for decorating homes with diyas (oil lamps) and rangoli (colorful patterns).

Day 3: Diwali (Main Festival): The main day of Diwali celebrates the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. It's the day when houses are illuminated with diyas and firecrackers are burst to symbolize the victory of light over darkness.

Day 4: Annakut: Also known as Govardhan Puja, this day celebrates Lord Krishna's victory over Indra, the king of gods. People offer food to the deities and decorate their homes with colorful flowers.

Day 5: Bhai Dooj: This day celebrates the bond between siblings. Sisters apply tilak to their brothers' foreheads and pray for their well-being, while brothers promise to protect their sisters.

The Story Behind Diwali

The most prominent story associated with Diwali is the return of Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Vishnu, to Ayodhya after defeating the evil king Ravana. Rama's victory symbolized the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. When Rama returned to Ayodhya, the people of the city lit diyas to celebrate his return and welcome him home. This tradition continues to this day.

Diwali Traditions and Customs

Diwali is a time for festivities and celebrations. Here are some of the common traditions and customs:

• Lighting Diyas: Diyas, small clay lamps filled with oil and a cotton wick, are lit throughout the festival. They symbolize the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
• Decorating Homes: Homes are decorated with colorful lights, diyas, and rangoli patterns.
• Firecrackers: Firecrackers are a common sight during Diwali, and they symbolize the celebration and joy of the festival.
• Sharing Sweets and Gifts: Sharing sweets and gifts is an integral part of Diwali. People exchange gifts and sweets with family and friends to spread joy and happiness.
• Praying to Lakshmi: Diwali is also a time for worshipping Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People pray to Lakshmi for good fortune and financial abundance.
• Wearing New Clothes: People often wear new clothes on Diwali to symbolize a fresh start and a new beginning.

The Significance of Diwali Today

Diwali continues to be a major celebration for millions of people around the world. It’s a reminder of the triumph of good over evil and the importance of light and knowledge in our lives. Diwali is also a time for families and friends to come together and celebrate the joy of life.