Diwali, also known as Deepavali

Diwali, also known as Deepavali

Monday, October 28, 2024

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and among the Indian diaspora around the world. It is a festival that marks the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. The word "Diwali" comes from the Sanskrit word "Deepavali," which means a "row of lamps." It is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy, filling the atmosphere with the warmth of love, lights, and festivities. Although primarily a Hindu festival, Diwali is observed by people of different religions and cultures, each adding its own unique flavor to the celebrations.

There are various legends associated with Diwali, depending on the region and cultural background of the people celebrating it. However, the most common one is from the great Hindu epic, the Ramayana. According to this story, Lord Rama, the prince of Ayodhya, returned to his kingdom after spending 14 years in exile. During his exile, he defeated the evil demon king Ravana and freed his wife, Sita, from captivity. The people of Ayodhya were overjoyed at the return of their beloved prince, and to celebrate his homecoming, they lit oil lamps and decorated the entire city. This practice of lighting lamps or diyas continues to be a central part of Diwali even today, symbolizing the victory of light (goodness) over darkness (evil).

Another important story linked with Diwali is the legend of Lord Krishna and the demon Narakasura. According to this story, Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura and freed 16,000 women from his tyranny. This victory is commemorated on the second day of Diwali, known as Naraka Chaturdashi, symbolizing the triumph of righteousness. In some parts of India, Diwali is celebrated to honor the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Lakshmi is believed to visit households on this day to bless the inhabitants with wealth and abundance. Therefore, people clean their homes and decorate them with lights and rangolis to welcome her. In the western states of India, Diwali also marks the beginning of the new financial year for traders and businessmen, who perform Lakshmi Puja to seek prosperity and success in their ventures.

Diwali is celebrated over a span of five days, each of which has its own significance and rituals. Namely, Dhanteras, Naraka Chaturdashi, Lakshmi Puja, Govardhan Puja or Annakut, and lastly Bhai Dooj. Among these Naraka Chaturdashi is known as the Choti Diwali and Lakshmi Puja is know as the Big Diwali.Weeks before Diwali, people begin cleaning and decorating their homes to prepare for the arrival of Goddess Lakshmi. It is believed that cleanliness attracts the goddess, who blesses the household with prosperity. Homes are adorned with colorful rangolis (decorative patterns made with colored powders, rice, or flowers), and entrances are decorated with torans (garlands made of marigolds or mango leaves). One of the most popular decorations for Diwali is the diya, an oil lamp made of clay, which is lit to drive away darkness. Diyas are placed in homes, courtyards, and temples, creating a mesmerizing display of light. In modern times, people also use electric lights and lanterns to brighten their homes.

Another important aspect of Diwali preparations is shopping. People buy new clothes, utensils, and even electronics during this time. It is a common belief that purchasing new items during Diwali brings good fortune for the year ahead.

On the main day of Diwali, families gather to perform the Lakshmi Puja, where they pray for the goddess's blessings. The puja is followed by lighting diyas and bursting fireworks. Fireworks have become an integral part of Diwali, symbolizing the joy and excitement of the festival. The sky lights up with colorful explosions, creating a magical atmosphere.

Sweets and snacks are an essential part of Diwali celebrations. People prepare a variety of traditional sweets such as laddoos, barfis, kaju katli, and gulab jamuns to share with family, friends, and neighbors. It is customary to exchange sweets and gifts as a gesture of goodwill, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness.

Diwali is a festival that transcends the boundaries of religion, culture, and geography. It is a time of celebration, reflection, and renewal. The lights of Diwali not only illuminate homes but also hearts, reminding us of the eternal triumph of good over evil. As families come together to celebrate, share sweets, and light up the night, they also kindle the flame of love, hope, and prosperity for the coming year.

This festival of lights holds a timeless message for humanity, that no matter how dark the times may seem, light will always prevail.

Report:

Ayesha Kamaludin, 9, ICSK Khaitan

Disclaimer: Statements and opinions expressed in the article are those of the authors and written by them; the author is solely responsible for the content in this article. IndiansinKuwait.com does not hold any responsibility for them.

<< PREV

| HOME |

NEXT >>

Express your comments...

Submit your comments...

Disclaimer: The views expressed here are strictly personal and IndiansinKuwait.com does not hold any responsibility on them. We shall endeavour to upload/publish as many of the comments that are submitted as possible within a reasonable span of time, but we do not guarantee that all comments that are submitted will be uploaded/published. Messages that harass, abuse or threaten other members; have obscene, unlawful, defamatory, libellous, hateful, or otherwise objectionable content; or have spam, commercial or advertising content or links are liable to be removed by the editors. We also reserve the right to edit the comments that do get published. Please do not post any private information unless you want it to be available publicly.