Diwali: The Festival of Lights

Diwali: The Festival of Lights

Monday, October 28, 2024

"As we work our way to create light for others, we naturally light our way”

Diwali or Dipawali is one of the most important holidays for Indians worldwide. The word Diwali comes from Sanskrit, meaning ‘rows of light’. Over the years, Diwali has become a national festival enjoyed by non-Hindu communities as well. Indians light diyas outside their homes to symbolise the inner light that protects them from spiritual darkness.

As Indians, knowing how and why Diwali is celebrated is important. Diwali is celebrated over five days:

DAY ONE (Dhanteras): people clean their homes or kitchen utensils to help bring good fortune.

DAY TWO: people decorate their homes with clay lamps and create a design pattern called rangoli on the floor using coloured powders or sand.

DAY THREE (Main Diwali Day): On the main day of the festival, families gather together for Lakshmi puja, a prayer to Goddess Lakshmi, followed by mouth-food dishes and firework festivities

DAY FOUR: This is the first day of the new year when friends and relatives visit with gifts and best wishes for the season.

DAY FIVE (Bhai Dooj): Brothers visit their married sister, who welcomes them with love and a lavish meal.

The Meaning and Stories Behind Diwali

The Hindus interpret Diwali stories based on where they live but the common theme is the victory of good over evil. Light is one of the most fundamental symbols. It is the spiritual and the divine, it is illumination and intelligence. Light is the source of goodness and the ultimate reality. This concept is what Diwali celebrates when the Lakshmi puja is performed on October 31 to November 1, 2024.

In northern India, Diwali celebrates the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after defeating demon king Ravana. In South India, it is celebrated for Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura. Diwali is celebrated over five days, starting with Dhanteras and ending with Bhai Dooj.

Embracing the Spirit of Diwali

As we come to the end of this talk, let’s take a moment to recognise the importance of Diwali. It’s not just about lights, sweets, or celebrations, it’s about spreading happiness, kindness, and positivity. Diwali teaches us that even in the darkest times, there’s always hope for a brighter tomorrow, just as a small diya can light up an entire room.

Let’s use this festival as a reminder to overcome negativity with optimism and ignorance with knowledge. Whether we are spending it with family, friends, or in our community, Diwali gives us a chance to rethink, forgive and start fresh.

So, as you light your diyas this Diwali, let those lights inspire you to bring joy into the lives of others and illuminate your path forward with hope and kindness. Wishing you all a very Happy Diwali! May this festival bring you and your loved ones peace, prosperity, and endless happiness.

Report:

Aleena Elza Bijo, 11, 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.

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Nitin Wednesday, October 30, 2024 Well explained. Good one. Happy diwali

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