Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most popular and widely celebrated festivals in India. Above all it is a festival of lights, joy and prosperity. This commemorates the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
Diwali is celebrated on the 15th day of the Hindu month of Kartik. Which usually falls in October or November according to the Gregorian calendar. Why we celebrate Diwali in India? Let explore more…
Basically the origin and significance of Diwali vary across different regions and communities in India. But they all share a common theme of celebrating the victory of good forces over evil ones.
Some of the most common legends associated with Diwali are:
- 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. Northern India celebrates Diwali for this main reason.
- Another key point, the killing of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna and his wife Satyabhama. Sourthern India celebrates Diwali for this main reason.
- The worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People believe that every home on Diwali night receives a visit by Goddess Lakshmiji and a blessing. This belief is the main reason for celebrating Diwali in western India.
- The birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) of Jainism. Who attained nirvana (liberation) on this day. Jains in India celebrates Diwali for this main reason.
- The attainment of nirvana by Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh Guru. Who was freed from imprisonment by the Mughal emperor Jahangir along with 52 other Hindu kings. Sikhs in India celebrates Diwali for this main reason.
Diwali is celebrated for five days, each with its own rituals and customs. The first day is Dhanteras, when people buy new utensils, jewelry and other items to attract wealth and prosperity. The second day is Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali. People light diyas (earthen lamps) and candles to ward off evil spirits and darkness.
Different days
The third day is Amavasya or Diwali, when people perform Lakshmi puja (worship). People exchange gifts and sweets with their friends and relatives, and burst firecrackers to celebrate joy and happiness. The fourth day is Kartika Shuddha Padyami or Govardhan Puja. People worship Lord Krishna and offer food to cows as a symbol of gratitude for their blessings.
The fifth day is Yama Dvitiya or Bhai Dooj. When sisters apply tilak (vermilion mark) on their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their long life and well-being. Hope now you are getting information that why we celebrate Diwali in India?
In particular, Diwali is a festival that brings people together irrespective of their caste, creed, religion or region. This festival symbolizes hope, harmony and happiness for all.
Besides Diwali is a festival that reminds us of our cultural heritage and values. In addition, it is a festival that inspires us to overcome our challenges and difficulties with courage and faith.In conclusion, it is a festival that teaches us to spread light, love and peace in the world.