Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most grandly celebrated and beloved festivals in India. Spanning over five days of festivities, it is a radiant celebration that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.
The Story Behind the Lights
At the heart of Diwali lies a tapestry of legends. The most widely known story is from the epic Ramayana, where Lord Rama returns to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and defeating the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya welcomed him by lighting oil lamps (diyas), symbolizing the end of darkness and the beginning of a new era of hope and peace.
Other regions celebrate Diwali to honor Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, who is believed to visit homes that are clean, decorated, and filled with light.
How India Celebrates Diwali
The festival is not just a spiritual event but a cultural extravaganza. Here’s how Diwali is celebrated across India:
Home Decoration: Houses are thoroughly cleaned and adorned with beautiful rangolis, flowers, and shimmering lights.
Diyas and Candles: Thousands of earthen lamps and candles are lit in homes and temples, creating a magical glow across cities and villages.
Lakshmi Puja: On the main Diwali night, families perform rituals and prayers to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for wealth, health, and happiness.
Fireworks: The skies burst into colorful displays of fireworks, representing the joy of the festival.
Sweets & Feasts: Mouth-watering traditional sweets like laddoos, barfis, and gulab jamuns are shared with neighbors, friends, and family.
Gifting: Diwali is also a time of giving – gifts, love, and warm wishes are exchanged generously.
A Festival Beyond Borders
Though deeply rooted in Indian tradition, Diwali is now celebrated across the globe – from New York to Singapore – bringing communities together in the spirit of joy, light, and unity.
More Than Just a Festival
Diwali is not just about external lights but also about rekindling the inner light within us. It reminds us to let go of negativity, embrace hope, and move forward with wisdom and compassion.
