Victory of Light Over Darkness
The name “Diwali” is derived from the Sanskrit term dipawali, meaning “row of lights.” This five-day religious festival occurs in autumn, from the 13th day of the dark half of the lunar month Ashvina to the second day of the light half of the lunar month Karttika. In the Gregorian calendar, Diwali usually falls between late October and November.
Diwali is a major Hindu festival celebrated in India and across the world. Its origins are rooted in ancient Indian mythology and symbolize the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and defeating the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya celebrated their return by lighting oil lamps, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. It is also a time to worship Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. According to tradition, Lakshmi was born during the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan) on this day, and people pray to her for blessings of wealth and good fortune.
Additionally, Diwali celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, who terrorized the heavens and the earth. His defeat represents the end of darkness and the beginning of joy and light.
Ways to Celebrate Diwali
Diwali traditions vary across regions in India, spanning multiple days with special celebrations for each. Worldwide, people celebrate Diwali with family gatherings, lighting lamps (diyas, small oil lamps made from cotton dipped in oil or ghee), fireworks, rangoli decorations, and feasts, symbolizing hope and positivity.
During this time, people often decorate windows and doors with rangoli patterns made from colored rice, sand, or flower petals. Doors and windows are kept open to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, inviting her blessings of prosperity and success into the home.
From Cleaning to Praying: Diwali’s Five Days of Celebration
The first to fifth days of Diwali are celebrated with distinct traditions:
- First Day (Dhanteras): The homeowner cleans the house and places small gold ornaments around as a symbol of prosperity.
- Second Day (Naraka Chaturdashi): People pray for the souls of their ancestors and ask for protection.
- Third-Day (Lakshmi Puja): Families pray to Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity, light diyas, candles, and fireworks, and visit temples.
- Fourth Day (Govardhan Puja): Husbands and wives exchange gifts, merchants perform religious ceremonies, and new account books are opened.
- Fifth Day (Bhai Dooj): Brothers and sisters celebrate their bond by praying for each other’s well-being.
This beautiful tradition reminds us that “goodness is the hope for everyone,” a message to be cherished and passed down through the generations.
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