Diwali is one of the most important Hindu festivals

Diwali

Introduction:

Diwali is one of the most important Hindu festivals. It is the festival of lights. Now a days, across the country as well as in abroad, people celebrate Diwali with variations .It symbolises the spiritual “victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance”.

Reason of naming Diwali :

‘Diwali’, the term, has originated from the Sanskrit word ‘dipavali’, which means “row of lights”. The word is derived from the word ‘dipa’, which means “lamp or lantern which glows or shines to illuminate knowledge,” and the word ‘avali’ means “a row or continuous line.” So It is the festival of lights.

Historical information regarding Diwali:

In the Hindu theology, Diwali marks the return of Prince Rama, Sita, and Lakshman to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile. The people of Ayodhya lit lamps to welcome them home. Goddess Lakshmi with Lord Ganesh helps to bring wealth and prosperity. Besides goddess Kali removes the negative energies and bring positivity and happiness. The majority in India worship Goddess Lakshmi on this day. The belief is that she will bring prosperity and peace for the house. But states like West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam observe this night as a time for Kali Puja, also known as Shyama Puja.

When is Diwali celebrated:

It occurs annually in Autumn in the southern hemisphere during the Hindu month of Kartik. Festival falls on the Amavasya tithi or the new moon day. Now a days, It is not a national religious festival. Presently, the people of Nepal, Singapore, Malaysia, United Kingdom Myanmar, South Africa, Indonesia, Thailand are also celebrating this auspicious day with great interest and enthusiasm.

How is the day celebrated:

The festival takes five days to celebrate properly. These five days are: Dhanteras, Chhoti Diwali, the main Diwali day , Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. It is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains, highlighting its diverse cultural significance. This festival is celebrated through various ways throughout the world.

People enlighten small earthen lamps filled with oil. These are lit to invite the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi. Worshipers decorate their house with lights, flowers, and Rangoli. They also wear new clothes, exchange gifts with family and friends. People have sweets and other delicious foods with each other. On this auspicious day , Special prayers are offered to Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity. People celebrate this day by liting fireworks.

Importance of celebrating Diwali:

The festival is very important as it represents the symbolic victory of light over darkness. It encourages the thought of knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. Diwali is a celebration to strengthen the bond among loved ones. People share their happiness during this time.