Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India and by Hindus worldwide. Commonly known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is a celebration of victory; it represents the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil in different parts of India. This festive time is marked by brilliant displays of fireworks, the lighting of oil lamps (diyas), bonfires, and the sharing of sweets and other delicacies among family and friends. More than just a festival, Diwali is a cultural milestone symbolizing togetherness, light prevailing over dark, and the pursuit of knowledge. This article explores the significance of Deepavali, its deep roots in Indian tradition, and how it’s celebrated in various parts of India.
The Mythological Origins of Diwali
The roots of Diwali trace back to ancient mythology and religious texts. Several legends are associated with the festival, each respected in different parts of India and among various communities.
Return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya: The most well-known Diwali legend marks the return of Lord Rama, the hero of the Hindu epic Ramayana, to his kingdom Ayodhya after 14 years in exile. According to the story, Rama returned with his wife, Sita, and his loyal brother, Lakshmana, after defeating the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps across the kingdom to celebrate, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.
Victory of Lord Krishna over Narakasura: Diwali celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, who terrorized both heaven and earth in Southern India. This victory, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, is celebrated joyfully by Krishna’s followers.
The Emergence of Goddess Lakshmi: Deepavali also honours Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Hindu mythology holds that on Diwali night, Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the ocean during its churning by gods and demons. People worship her on Diwali to invite wealth and prosperity into their homes.
Kali Puja in West Bengal: In West Bengal, Diwali is celebrated as Kali Puja, and it is dedicated to Goddess Kali, symbolizing the power to destroy evil. Homes are lit with lamps, and prayers are offered to Goddess Kali, who is seeking her protection and blessings for prosperity.
The Five Days of Diwali Celebrations
Diwali is traditionally celebrated over five days, each with significance and unique regional variations.
1. Dhanteras (Day of Wealth):
Deepavali celebrations begin with Dhanteras, which is dedicated to honouring wealth and prosperity. The word ‘Dhan’ means wealth, and ‘Teras’ refers to the thirteenth day of the Hindu lunar calendar. On this day, people buy precious metals like gold and silver as symbols of prosperity. Some also purchase new utensils, believing they bring good fortune. Homes are cleaned, and entrances are decorated with colourful rangolis and lamps.
2. Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali):
The second day, known as Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, marks Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. People often wake early, bathe, and prepare for the main Diwali day. Oil lamps are traditionally lit to dispel darkness and prepare for the festival.
3. Diwali (Lakshmi Puja):
The third day is the main day of Diwali, centred around the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, who is believed to visit homes on this day to bestow blessings. The evening is illuminated with countless oil lamps, candles, and string lights. People dress in new clothes, wear jewellery, and perform Lakshmi Puja to invite prosperity and happiness into their homes. Firecrackers, the exchange of sweets, and family gatherings make this the heart of the Diwali celebration.
4. Govardhan Puja (Padwa):
The fourth day, known as Govardhan Puja in North India and Padwa in Maharashtra, commemorates Lord Krishna’s lifting of Govardhan Hill to protect the people of Gokul from a storm sent by the rain god, Indra. In some regions, it’s also celebrated as a day honouring the bond between husband and wife.
5. Bhai Dooj (Day of Siblings):
On the fifth and final day, Bhai Dooj celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters apply a tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, pray for their well-being, and exchange gifts to express their love and care for one another.
Traditions and Customs of Diwali
Diwali is rich with customs, each carrying its own significance. Here are some of the cherished traditions associated with the festival:
Rangoli: Creating rangolis at the entrance of homes is a popular Deepavali tradition. These colorful patterns, made with powders, flowers, and rice, are symbols of auspiciousness and welcome.
Lighting Diyas: The lighting of diyas, or oil lamps, is central to Diwali. These lamps symbolize the removal of darkness and ignorance.
Firecrackers: Firecrackers have become a part of Deepavali celebrations, symbolizing joy and excitement. However, growing awareness around their environmental and health impacts has led many people to opt for eco-friendly celebrations.
Sweets and Feasts: Deepavali is a time to indulge in sweets and festive foods. Special treats like ladoos, barfis, and jalebis are prepared and shared among family and friends as a symbol of goodwill.
Gift Exchanges: Exchanging gifts during Diwali is a way of expressing love, gratitude, and appreciation for loved ones. Traditional gifts include sweets, dry fruits, and decorative items, while modern gifts may include electronics and household goods.
Diwali in Modern Times
While Deepavali has deep-rooted traditions, modern celebrations have adopted new flavours, especially in urban areas. With families often dispersed globally, Diwali has become a time for reunions. Modern conveniences like pre-made rangoli kits, LED lights, and digital greetings have made celebrating Diwali easier for those far away from loved ones.
Environmental awareness has also influenced Diwali celebrations. Many people now opt for a “Green Diwali,” minimizing or eliminating firecrackers and using eco-friendly decorations. Communities often run awareness drives, encouraging people to celebrate in ways that minimize pollution and waste.
Regional Variations of Diwali
Diwali is celebrated uniquely across various regions in India. In Southern India, for instance, the focus is on Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. In Maharashtra, the celebrations include elaborate feasts, and homes are decorated with Akash Kandils (lanterns). In West Bengal, the emphasis is on worshipping Goddess Kali as a symbol of strength and the destruction of evil.
Diwali’s Global Impact
Today, Deepavali is celebrated worldwide, with major events in countries with large Indian communities, like the United States, Canada, the UK, and Australia. Iconic buildings and landmarks light up for Diwali, and local communities organize fairs, Bollywood nights, and cultural events. In the UK, Trafalgar Square hosts a Deepavali celebration with music, dance, and food, drawing large crowds every year.
The Deeper Message of Diwali: Inner Light and Positivity
Though celebrated with outward displays of light, Deepavali holds a deeper spiritual message. It is a time for self-reflection, renewal, and cultivating positive energy. The lighting of diyas represents an inner awakening, the triumph of knowledge over ignorance, and the importance of kindness, forgiveness, and unity.
As we celebrate Diwali, it reminds us to embrace our inner light, nurture relationships, and contribute to our communities. Deepavali is more than a festival; it celebrates life, symbolizing hope, happiness, and unity for a brighter future.
