Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India and among people of Indian origin worldwide. It is known as the Festival of Lights and symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
Origins and Meaning
- Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, meaning "row of lights" (where "deepa" means light, and "avali" means row). It is a festival that is deeply rooted in Hindu tradition, but it is also celebrated by Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists for various religious and cultural reasons.
Reasons Why Indians Celebrate Diwali
Diwali has different meanings and stories associated with it, depending on regional and religious beliefs. Here are the main reasons for its celebration:
1. Hindu Mythology
- Victory of Lord Rama: In northern India, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana to the kingdom of Ayodhya after a 14-year exile and after defeating the demon king Ravana. People of Ayodhya lit oil lamps to celebrate their return, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
- Victory of Lord Krishna: In some regions, Diwali commemorates Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
- Worship of Goddess Lakshmi: Diwali is also associated with the worship of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People believe that Lakshmi visits homes that are clean and well-lit to bless them with good fortune for the coming year.
- Pandavas' Return: Some also connect Diwali with the return of the Pandavas from their exile, as described in the Mahabharata.
2. Jainism
- For Jains, Diwali marks the anniversary of Lord Mahavira's attainment of Nirvana (liberation) in 527 BCE. Mahavira was the 24th Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) and is revered as one of the central figures in Jainism.
3. Sikhism
- Sikhs celebrate Diwali as the day when the 6th Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji, was released from imprisonment by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1619. This day is known as Bandi Chhor Divas, or "the day of liberation," when the Guru freed himself and 52 other political prisoners.
4. Buddhism (Newar Buddhists)
- In certain Buddhist communities, especially in Nepal, Diwali is celebrated as Tihar, which signifies the victory of good and is linked to the veneration of various gods and animals like dogs, cows, and crows.
How Diwali Is Celebrated
1. Lighting Lamps (Diyas)
- People light small oil lamps, called diyas, and place them around their homes, temples, and public places. The light symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and knowledge over ignorance.
2. Fireworks and Crackers
- Fireworks are burst to celebrate joy and the victory of good forces. It is believed that the sound of firecrackers wards off evil spirits.
3. Rangoli
- People create intricate patterns on the ground using colored powders, rice, or flowers. These designs, called rangoli, are meant to welcome the goddess Lakshmi into their homes.
4. Lakshmi Puja
- One of the most important rituals during Diwali is the Lakshmi Puja, where people worship Goddess Lakshmi and pray for wealth, prosperity, and well-being. Homes and businesses are thoroughly cleaned, and new clothes are worn as part of this ritual.
5. Exchanging Gifts and Sweets
- Families and friends exchange gifts, sweets, and snacks as part of the celebrations. Special sweets like ladoos, barfi, and gulab jamun are prepared and shared with neighbors and loved ones.
6. New Year Celebrations
- In some regions of India, especially Gujarat, Diwali also marks the Hindu New Year. It is a time for new beginnings, financial planning, and conducting new business ventures.
7. Charitable Acts
- Diwali is a time for giving and sharing with those less fortunate. Many people donate food, clothing, and other essentials to those in need during the festival.
Spiritual and Symbolic Meaning
- Good Over Evil: The overarching theme of Diwali is the victory of good over evil and the light of knowledgeovercoming the darkness of ignorance.
- Inner Light: Diwali also has a philosophical meaning, symbolizing the awakening of the inner light within individuals. This inner light is believed to bring peace, joy, and prosperity.
Diwali’s Cultural Significance
- Diwali is not only a religious event but also a social and cultural celebration. It brings together families, communities, and even people of different faiths to celebrate unity, prosperity, and the spirit of togetherness.
In Summary
Diwali is celebrated by Indians across the world as a festival of lights, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. The traditions vary, but at its core, Diwali is about family, renewal, and the hope for prosperity in the coming year