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Diwali Festival ( Overview)

Historical Celebrations

Ancient and Medieval Periods: Diwali has been celebrated for thousands of years. Historical records and ancient texts mention the festival of lights. During the reign of various Indian dynasties, Diwali was celebrated with great pomp and grandeur, with royal palaces and cities illuminated with lamps.

Modern Celebrations

Contemporary Practices: Today, Diwali is celebrated with immense enthusiasm and joy across India and in Indian communities worldwide. The festival spans five days, each with its own significance:
- Dhanteras: The first day marks the beginning of Diwali and is dedicated to the worship of Lord Dhanvantari and purchasing new items, especially gold and silver.
- Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali): The second day celebrates Krishna's victory over Narakasura.
- Lakshmi Puja: The third day is the main day of Diwali, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi. Homes are decorated with lights, rangoli, and people exchange sweets and gifts.
- Govardhan Puja: The fourth day commemorates Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers from heavy rains.
- Bhai Dooj: The fifth day celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.

Cultural Significance

Diwali is not just a religious festival but also a cultural celebration that brings together people of different communities and backgrounds. It is a time for family gatherings, feasting, lighting lamps, fireworks, and sharing joy. The festival also signifies the start of the new financial year for many businesses in India.

In summary, Diwali is a festival with deep historical, cultural, and religious significance, celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion across India and beyond.

Festival Type

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Month Of Celebration

October or November

Religion

Hindu

Celebrated For

Return of Rama

Total Days Of Celebration

Region Of Celebration

All India

Why We Celebrate Diwali ?

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India. The word "Diwali" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Deepavali," which means "a row or series of lights." The festival signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. The history and significance of Diwali are rooted in various legends and traditions, which vary across different regions of India. Here are some of the prominent stories associated with the history of Diwali:

Hindu Mythology

Return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya
- Legend: The most popular legend associated with Diwali is the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. During his exile, Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya celebrated Rama's return by lighting oil lamps (diyas) to illuminate the city and welcome their beloved prince.
- Significance: This story symbolizes the victory of good over evil and light over darkness.
Lord Krishna and Narakasura
- Legend: Another significant legend is the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon king Narakasura, who had terrorized the inhabitants of the three worlds. Krishna defeated Narakasura and freed 16,000 captive princesses on the day before Diwali, which is celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi.
- Significance: This story emphasizes the triumph of good over evil.
Goddess Lakshmi's Birth and Marriage
- Legend: Diwali is also associated with the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. According to mythology, Lakshmi was born from the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan) on the new moon day of the Hindu month of Kartika. Additionally, it is believed that on this day, Lakshmi chose Lord Vishnu as her consort.
- Significance: This legend highlights the importance of wealth, prosperity, and the divine feminine.
Pandavas' Return
- Legend: According to the Mahabharata, the Pandavas returned to their kingdom after 13 years of exile on the day of Diwali. Their return was celebrated with joy and lighting of lamps throughout the kingdom.
- Significance: This story signifies the return of righteousness and justice.

Jainism

Mahavira's Nirvana: Diwali is also significant in Jainism as it marks the nirvana (liberation) of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara. Jains celebrate this day by lighting lamps, symbolizing the light of knowledge and liberation.

Sikhism

Bandi Chhor Divas: In Sikhism, Diwali is celebrated as Bandi Chhor Divas, which commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, from the prison of Mughal Emperor Jahangir. The Guru was released along with 52 Hindu kings, and the day is marked with illumination and festivities.

What Is Special About Diwali ?

Diwali, often referred to as the Festival of Lights, is a special occasion marked by numerous unique aspects and traditions. Here are some elements that make Diwali special:

1. Symbolism of Light Over Darkness

Meaning: Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. This central theme is reflected in the practice of lighting oil lamps (diyas), candles, and electric lights.

2. Cultural and Religious Diversity

Hinduism: Celebrates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya, Lord Krishna's victory over Narakasura, and the birth and marriage of Goddess Lakshmi.
Jainism: Marks the nirvana of Lord Mahavira.
Sikhism: Commemorates Bandi Chhor Divas, the release of Guru Hargobind Ji.
Buddhism: Some Buddhists, particularly the Newar Buddhists in Nepal, celebrate Diwali.

3. Five Days of Celebration

Each day of Diwali has its own significance:

Dhanteras: First day, associated with wealth and prosperity, and the purchase of precious metals.
Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali): Second day, celebrating Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura.
Lakshmi Puja: Third day, the main day of Diwali, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi.
Govardhan Puja: Fourth day, commemorates Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill.
Bhai Dooj: Fifth day, celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.

4. Rituals and Traditions

Cleaning and Decorating Homes: People thoroughly clean their homes and decorate them with rangoli (intricate patterns made with colored powders), flowers, and lights.
Lighting Diyas: Lighting oil lamps and candles is a major part of Diwali, creating a beautiful and serene atmosphere.
Fireworks: Fireworks and sparklers are a common sight, symbolizing the joy and excitement of the festival.
Puja (Prayers): Special prayers and offerings are made to various deities, particularly Goddess Lakshmi, for prosperity and well-being.
Rangoli: Intricate and colorful patterns are drawn on the ground, especially at the entrance of homes, to welcome guests and deities.

5. Sweets and Festive Foods

Sweets (Mithai): An array of traditional sweets like ladoos, barfis, jalebis, and more are prepared and shared among family, friends, and neighbors.
Feasting: Special meals and festive dishes are cooked and enjoyed during the celebrations.

6. Gift Exchange

Gifts: Exchanging gifts is a common practice during Diwali. People give and receive sweets, dry fruits, clothing, jewelry, and other tokens of affection and goodwill.

7. New Beginnings

Financial Year: Many businesses in India consider Diwali as the start of a new financial year, performing rituals to bless their accounts and business ventures.
Personal Resolutions: People often take this time to start new ventures or projects, seeing Diwali as an auspicious time for fresh beginnings.

8. Community and Togetherness

Family Gatherings: Diwali is a time for families to come together, often traveling from different parts of the country or world to be with their loved ones.
Community Events: Neighborhoods and communities organize various events, fairs, and cultural programs, fostering a sense of unity and celebration.

9. Charity and Giving

Acts of Kindness: Many people engage in acts of charity and help those in need during Diwali, reflecting the spirit of generosity and compassion.

10. Global Celebration

Worldwide Observance: Diwali is celebrated by Indian communities worldwide, making it a global festival. Major landmarks in various countries are often lit up to mark the occasion.

Rituals To Celebrate Diwali ?

Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated with a multitude of rituals and customs that vary slightly across different regions of India. Here is an overview of the main rituals associated with Diwali:

Pre-Diwali Preparations

Cleaning and Decorating Homes
- Cleaning: In the weeks leading up to Diwali, homes are thoroughly cleaned and sometimes even renovated. This is believed to purify the home and welcome prosperity.
- Decorating: Homes are decorated with rangoli (colorful patterns made on the floor using colored powders, rice, or flower petals), flowers, and torans (decorative hangings). The entrance is often adorned to welcome guests and deities.

Dhanteras (Day 1)

Dhanteras Puja
- Purchasing Metals: On this day, people buy precious metals like gold and silver or new utensils, as it is considered auspicious and believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
- Puja: A special prayer is conducted for Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and Ayurveda, and Goddess Lakshmi.

Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali, Day 2)

Early Morning Rituals
- Oil Bath: Traditionally, people take an early morning oil bath, which is believed to absolve them of sins and purify the body and soul.
- Lighting Diyas: In the evening, homes and courtyards are lit with oil lamps and candles to ward off evil spirits.

Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali Day, Day 3)

Lakshmi Puja
- Puja Preparation: Homes are brightly lit with diyas, and elaborate rangoli designs are made. The house is kept clean and tidy to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.
- Prayer: A special prayer is conducted for Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People also worship Lord Ganesha, seeking his blessings for wisdom and the removal of obstacles.
- Offerings: Offerings of sweets, fruits, flowers, and incense are made to the deities. Aarti (a ceremonial prayer involving the waving of a lighted lamp) is performed.
- Bhajans: Devotional songs and bhajans are sung in praise of the deities.
Lighting Lamps and Fireworks
- Lamps and Candles: Homes are illuminated with oil lamps, candles, and electric lights. This is done to invite the goddess and dispel darkness.
- Fireworks: Firecrackers and fireworks are burst to celebrate the occasion and ward off evil spirits.

Govardhan Puja (Day 4)

Govardhan Puja
- Mount Govardhan Ritual: In some regions, this day commemorates Lord Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan to protect the villagers from torrential rains. People create small mounds of cow dung or clay, symbolizing Mount Govardhan, and decorate them with flowers.
- Annakut: A large variety of vegetarian food is prepared and offered to Krishna in a ritual known as Annakut (mountain of food).

Bhai Dooj (Day 5)

Bhai Dooj
- Brother-Sister Bond: This day celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform aarti for their brothers and apply a tilak (a mark) on their foreheads, praying for their well-being and prosperity.
- Gifts and Feasting: Brothers give gifts to their sisters and the family enjoys a festive meal together.

General Rituals Throughout Diwali

Exchange of Sweets and Gifts
- Sweets (Mithai): Exchanging sweets is a common practice. People prepare or buy a variety of traditional sweets and share them with family, friends, and neighbors.
- Gifts: Gifts such as clothes, jewelry, and dry fruits are exchanged as a token of love and goodwill.
Charity and Donations
- Helping the Needy: Many people engage in acts of charity, donating money, clothes, and food to those in need. This reflects the spirit of generosity and compassion.
Community Events
- Fairs and Cultural Programs: Local communities often organize fairs, cultural performances, and public fireworks displays. These events foster a sense of community and celebration.

Bright Facts About Diwali:

Here are some interesting facts about Diwali, the Festival of Lights:

Cultural and Historical Facts

Ancient Origins: Diwali has been celebrated for over 2,500 years. Its origins can be traced back to ancient India, though the exact time of its inception is unknown.
Multi-Religious Celebration: While primarily a Hindu festival, Diwali is also celebrated by Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists, each attributing different historical and religious significance to the festival.
Pan-Indian Festival: Diwali is celebrated across India with various regional variations. In North India, it celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya, while in South India, it marks the victory of Lord Krishna over Narakasura. In West Bengal, it coincides with the worship of Goddess Kali.

Rituals and Traditions

Five-Day Festival: Diwali spans five days, each with its own significance:
- Dhanteras: First day, focused on wealth and prosperity.
- Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali): Second day, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
- Lakshmi Puja: Third day, the main day dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi.
- Govardhan Puja: Fourth day, celebrating Lord Krishna's lifting of Mount Govardhan.
- Bhai Dooj: Fifth day, celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters.
Lighting Lamps: The lighting of oil lamps (diyas) and candles is central to Diwali celebrations. This tradition is meant to drive away darkness and evil and to welcome prosperity and happiness.
Rangoli: Creating colorful rangoli patterns at the entrances of homes is a popular Diwali tradition. These intricate designs are made using colored powders, rice, or flower petals and are believed to bring good luck.
Fireworks: Firecrackers and fireworks are an integral part of Diwali celebrations. They symbolize the joy of the people living on Earth, making the gods aware of their happiness.

Economic and Social Impact

Economic Boost: Diwali is one of the biggest shopping seasons in India. People buy new clothes, gifts, gold, silver, and other items. Businesses see a significant boost in sales during this period.
Community and Family Bonding: Diwali is a time for family reunions and social gatherings. People visit friends and relatives, exchange gifts and sweets, and partake in communal celebrations.

Environmental and Health Considerations

Environmental Concerns: The extensive use of fireworks during Diwali has raised concerns about air and noise pollution. Efforts are being made to promote eco-friendly celebrations, such as using green crackers and limiting firework use.
Health Impacts: The smoke and noise from fireworks can cause respiratory problems and stress, especially in vulnerable populations like the elderly, children, and pets.

Fun and Festivities

Diwali Sweets: A wide variety of traditional sweets (mithai) like ladoos, barfis, jalebis, and more are prepared and shared during Diwali. These sweets are an essential part of the festive celebrations.
Global Celebration: Diwali is not just limited to India. It is celebrated by Indian communities around the world, including in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Malaysia. Major landmarks in various countries are often illuminated to mark the occasion.

Spiritual Significance

Inner Light: Beyond the physical lighting of lamps, Diwali also symbolizes the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness. It is a time for self-reflection, spiritual awakening, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Charity and Compassion: Many people engage in charitable activities during Diwali, donating money, clothes, and food to those in need. This reflects the spirit of generosity and compassion that the festival embodies.