Diwali, the festival of lights

Diwali, also known as the festival of lights, is celebrated with great fervor in India. Today, Passion India explains the significance of this festival and how it is celebrated!

Over the centuries, Diwali has become a national festival celebrated by most Indians regardless of their faith: Hindus, Jains, Buddhists and Sikhs.

However, traditionally, the reasons for commemorating this day differ from region to region.
Diwali commemorates an episode of “Ramayana”, one of the mythological poems of Hinduism that tells of the return in its capital, Ayodhya, of King Rama with his wife Sita. She had been kidnapped by the demon Ravana. Diwali celebrates Rama’s victory over Ravana, in other words the victory of good over evil.

Another story tells that it is the day when Lakshimi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, chose Vishnu as her husband, so she is revered on this day.

And Diwali is also the beginning of the New Year according to the Hindu calendar…
As you can see, there are many reasons to celebrate Diwali but what remains true and constant is the celebration of life, its enjoyment and a great sense of goodness.

The festival is celebrated during 5 days and marked by large firework displays and candles (diyas) are illuminated. The houses are decorated with colorful rangoli artworks- patterns created on the floor using colored rice or powder.

The first day of Diwali celebration is called Dhanteras and it marks the official beginning of the Diwali festivity. Home makers regard this day as an auspicious day for buying aluminum and steel utensils, gold, silver and precious stones, jewelry, new clothes etc…

The second day of Diwali festival week is called Choti Diwali, it’s the small Diwali. People celebrate this day with fewer lights and fewer crackers, in order to get into the mood for the big celebration.

The third day of these festivities is the actual Diwali, when Goddess Lakshmi is worshiped, along with Lord Ganesha. On this day, families and friends offer sweets and gifts and share a meal. There is also a strong belief in giving food and goods to those in need. Houses and offices are cleaned and new clothes are worn for the occasion, not only to remove dust, but also the negativity and darkness of their home and their lives, to welcome a positive new year!

At nightfall, families go out in the streets for a walk and admire the show of lights and the fireworks which take place everywhere in the city! It is a show not to be missed!

The fourth day is celebrated in sundry forms all across the country but it is also the first day of the New Year.

The fifth day of Diwali festivities is celebrated as the Bhai Dooj/ Bhai Teeka or Bhai Fota. Brothers visit their sisters and they sisters prepare sweets and in their honour and share a meal together. They wish them a life full of happiness and long life.

In short, the festival of lights symbolizes joy, love, new resolutions, forgiveness and knowledge.

We wish you all a happy Diwali and a Happy New Year!