Diwali, also called Deepavali, is the Hindu festival of lights observed every autumn in India and Nepal. It marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, as well as the triumph of Rama’s return to his kingdom after defeating Ravana. Like many Indian festivals, it blends religious and cultural practices that have been carried out since time immemorial with new customs introduced by political rulers over the past few centuries.
The History of Diwali
Diwali is one of India’s most celebrated festivals. Diwali, also known as Deepawali or Dipavali, means rows or series of lights. It originated from a legend about goddess Lakshmi, who worshipped Lord Vishnu for eight days and nights in hopes that he would keep her husband alive during an illness. Lord Vishnu was touched by her devotion to him, so he revived Lakshmi’s husband. He then went on to light up all of heaven with rows of lamps (diya), hence, Diwali was born. This celebration lasts five days, with each day marking a different meaning behind it: The first day is meant to mark gratitude towards our parents and ancestors; it’s also considered as Goddess Lakshmi’s birthday. The second day marks Rama’s return home after defeating Ravana (the king of Lanka) after 14 years exile and his wedding with Sita; while the third marks Lord Krishna’s return home after killing Narakasura – demon-king who had been terrorizing Mathura since long time ago.
Why do People Celebrate Diwali
There are many reasons why people celebrate Diwali. Most people who celebrate it light lamps to mark Rama’s return from 14 years in exile. This return is called Agni Parv, or The Festival of Lights. On Diwali day, Hindus also worship Lakshmi, an aspect of Shakti that personifies wealth, fortune and prosperity. People also worship Krishna on Diwali day as he represents dark-skinned gods such as Shiva, Vishnu and Ganesha. Lastly, some people commemorate Narak Chaturdashi by reciting prayers dedicated to Kali, a fierce form of Devi representing destruction.
Although there are a number different reasons why people choose to celebrate Diwali they all bring love, happiness and hope for prosperity in their lives. Ways to Celebrate Diwali: For most Indians, celebrating Diwali means preparing for and then taking part in feasts with family and friends. They typically gather at home, light lamps and set up tables laden with fruits, sweets, savories and drinks. Some houses have small swings outside which children can play on while waiting for dinner time; these swings are meant to represent Hanuman’s tail so children will be blessed with strength like him. At night families gather around lit diyas (lamps) decorated with rangoli (colorful rice designs) as well as other decorations such as marigolds or other flowers, bells etc.
What Happens on Diwali
Diwali, also known as Deepavali or Dipavali, is a major Hindu festival celebrated at home with family members and friends. The Festival of Lights commemorates many things: It is observed to honor Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth; it celebrates Krishna’s return from killing Kans (the demon Narakasura); it remembers Ramayana; it honors Vishnu.
Traditions Associated with this Festival
Diwali is a five-day festival (starting on a different date each year), celebrated by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs. Diwali—also known as Deepavali—is observed for Lakshmi Puja, in which goddess Lakshmi is worshipped; Ganesha Chaturthi, when people pray to god Ganesha for prosperity; and Bhai Dooj (brothers’ day), during which sisters honor their brothers with gifts.
What does Diwali Mean?
Diwali is an ancient Hindu festival that celebrates life, knowledge, and wealth. This multi-day festival is also known as The Festival of Lights because people decorate their homes with tiny oil lamps called diyas (the word diyas means lamp in Sanskrit). People also display colorful images, which represent various gods. Diwali honors Rama, a hero in Hindu mythology who killed a powerful demon king to rescue his kidnapped wife Sita. Lakshmi Puja: Lakshmi Puja is one of many rituals performed during Diwali. During Lakshmi Puja, Hindus worship goddess Lakshmi, who represents prosperity and abundance. She’s considered a symbol of good fortune for families around the world. It’s believed that worshipping her brings good luck for all family members, including pets!
Interesting Facts About The Diwali Festival
Diwali, commonly referred to as the Festival of Lights, is one of India’s biggest holidays, an occasion for gathering with family and friends. One of its most interesting facets is that it is celebrated by people from all different backgrounds (Hindus, Jains, Sikhs) in India as well as around the globe. There are actually a handful of traditions associated with Diwali—here are just a few. Just like any other holiday, there are some interesting facts you may not have known about Diwali. Here are a few fun tidbits you might find surprising! Nirjala Ekadashi or Nirjala Purnima is observed on Shukla Paksha Ekadashi or Krishna Paksha Chaturthi every month in Bhadrapada month. This festival falls on day 13 of waxing phase of moon in Hindu Calendar month Bhadrapada.
Conclusion
Diwali is a festival that celebrates inner light—the divine flame within us all. Throughout history, people have celebrated Diwali by decorating their homes with tiny oil lamps (diyas). Diyas are set out in multiples, as you never know how many guests will come to your celebration. Like most Hindu festivals, there’s no one explanation for why Diwali is observed on a specific day; it’s different each year.