Diwali or Deepavali, the festival of lights, is one of the most awaited times by millions of Indians across the globe. Diwali is heralded as the Triumph of Good over Evil. Deep means "light" and avali "a row" to become "a row of lights."
The Diwali festival occurs in late October or early November. It falls on the 15th day of the Hindu month of Kartik.
Diwali is all about narrating inspirational tales, which make us reflect and think deeply about life and its ultimate goal. It teaches us that good can win over the evil, righteousness over treachery, truth over falsehood and foremost, light over darkness.
From the remembrance of Lord Rama’s glorious return to his Kingdom Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile in the deep forests to Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakaasura, who had kidnapped and scared the gopis of Vrindavan, Diwali holds many heroic events. The day is also celebrated as the day when Bhagwan Vishnu married Maha Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
In Bengal, the festival is dedicated to the worship of Mother Kali, the dark goddess of strength. Lord Ganesha, symbol of auspiciousness and wisdom is also worshiped in most of the households.
In Jainism, Diwali holds the significance of Lord Mahavira attaining an eternal bliss of Nirvana.
Diwali also talks about the fall of Bali ; a demon king who was defeated by Lord Vishnu.
Across India, the festival is celebrated in many ways, during the course of four days, or more, if Dhanteras is included.
During this festival, diyas are lit and placed in rows along the parapets of temples and houses. People also decorate the entrance of their homes with rangoli. It is a common practice for people to keep their doors and windows open in the hope that Goddess Lakshmi will find her way inside the house and shower blessings of good health and wealth upon the inhabitants.
Diwali celebrations are brightened with lit candles, fireworks, sweets and various delicacies, part of the joy and happiness one feels in the presence of their loved ones.
It is also the day where we reflect on ourselves and see the positivity behind the whole spirit of the festival. Homes are decorated with lanterns which remind us of the Light of the Above, which guides us to do good in life and avoid bad paths. As much as it has become a competition to have the best diya, rangoli or candle to share on social media, it is a day to remember that the values of Diwali are deeper than superficial materialistic things.
« Let the light penetrate in ward,
for only there will it have lasting benefit.
A piece of cotton soaked in ghee,
lit with a pure heart,
a conscious mind and a desire
to be free from ignorance is far “brighter”
than 100 expensive deepaks »
- Ajay Matharu.
Sonserina_Reina | DreamButterfly | dmegha |
| Koeli | 18shabbo | Proteeti |
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2
Debate Mansion
Parineeti
Chakravarti Samrat Prithviraj Chauhan
