Diwali: The Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in India. Known as the “Festival of Lights,” Diwali is celebrated by millions of people across the country and by Indian communities around the world. It marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

The origins of Diwali can be traced back to various Hindu myths, but the most well-known story is that of Lord Rama’s return to his kingdom of Ayodhya after a 14-year exile. According to the epic Ramayana, Rama’s return was celebrated with the lighting of oil lamps (diyas) to guide him home and to symbolize the victory of good over evil. The lighting of lamps has since become a central part of Diwali celebrations.

Diwali also holds significance in other religious traditions in India. In Jainism, it marks the attainment of Nirvana by Lord Mahavira, while in Sikhism, it commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from imprisonment. In Buddhism, particularly among the Newar Buddhists of Nepal, it celebrates the victory of light over darkness.

Diwali typically falls between mid-October and mid-November, depending on the lunar calendar. It is celebrated on the 15th day of the dark fortnight of Ashvin, the seventh month of the Hindu lunar calendar. The date varies every year, but the main celebration lasts for five days.

1. Day 1 – Dhanteras: The festival begins with Dhanteras, a day dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari (the god of medicine) and the beginning of new purchases, especially gold, silver, and utensils. People clean their homes and buy new items as a symbol of prosperity.

2. Day 2 – Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali): The second day is considered the day Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. People often burst fireworks and light lamps to celebrate this victory.

3. Day 3 – Diwali: The third day is the main Diwali celebration, marking the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya. On this day, families perform Lakshmi Pujan, the worship of Goddess Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth and prosperity). Homes are illuminated with diyas and fairy lights, and families come together to share meals, sweets, and festive joy.

4. Day 4 – Govardhan Puja: The fourth day commemorates the lifting of the Govardhan Hill by Lord Krishna to protect his devotees from torrential rains. People in some regions create small hillocks with cow dung to symbolize the mountain and offer prayers.

5. Day 5 – Bhai Dooj: The final day of Diwali celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform aarti and apply tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, praying for their long life and well-being, while brothers give gifts in return.

• Lighting Diyas: One of the most iconic traditions of Diwali is the lighting of oil lamps, or diyas. These lamps are placed around homes and public spaces to welcome positive energy and drive away evil spirits. Modern celebrations also include the use of electric lights and candles.

• Fireworks: Fireworks are an integral part of Diwali celebrations. Though the use of fireworks has been criticized for environmental and health reasons, they continue to be an important part of the festivities, symbolizing the joy of the people.

• Rangoli: People decorate the entrances of their homes with colorful rangoli (patterns made with colored powders, flowers, or rice). It is believed that these intricate designs invite prosperity and good luck into the home.

• Sweets and Feasts: Diwali is also a time for sharing delicious food. Sweets like ladoos, barfis, and gulab jamuns are made and exchanged with family, friends, and neighbors. Special meals are prepared, and people enjoy traditional snacks like samosas and pakoras.

• Wearing New Clothes: On Diwali, it is customary to wear new clothes, symbolizing a fresh start and the removal of negative energy. People often choose bright and festive colors like gold, red, and yellow for their outfits.

Diwali is not just a religious festival; it is a cultural event that transcends religious boundaries in India. People from different communities, whether Hindu, Jain, Sikh, or Buddhist, celebrate Diwali with equal zeal, making it a symbol of unity and shared cultural heritage.

Beyond India, Diwali is celebrated in various countries with large Indian diasporas, including Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and the United States. Major cities across the globe light up with Diwali-themed events, parades, and public celebrations.

In recent years, Diwali celebrations have seen a shift toward more eco-conscious practices. Many people are now opting for environmentally friendly crackers or avoiding fireworks altogether, in favor of laser light shows or other non-polluting methods of celebration. This shift is part of a larger movement to reduce the environmental impact of festivals, particularly in urban areas.

Diwali is a festival that brings people together, celebrates the light within each person, and marks the victory of good over evil. It’s a time for family, joy, reflection, and renewal, where ancient traditions blend with modern practices to create a festive atmosphere that fills hearts with warmth and optimism. Whether through the lighting of diyas or the exchange of sweets, Diwali remains a timeless celebration of life, light, and love.