Diwali, often called the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant and joyous festivals celebrated across India and by Hindus worldwide. This five-day-long festival, marked by the illumination of oil lamps (diyas), vibrant fireworks, delicious feasts, and familial bonding, holds deep cultural, spiritual, and social importance. Beyond the celebrations, Diwali is a time to reflect on the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance, making it a powerful reminder of hope and renewal.
The Origins and Meaning Behind Diwali
Diwali, derived from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, meaning “a row of lights,” finds its origins in ancient Hindu mythology. While celebrated for different reasons in various regions of India, the most popular story associated with Diwali is the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana to the kingdom of Ayodhya after a 14-year exile. Lord Rama’s triumph over the demon king Ravana symbolizes the victory of good over evil, and the people of Ayodhya, in their joy, lit their city with oil lamps to welcome their king home.
However, Diwali is not only a Hindu festival. For Jains, Diwali marks the attainment of nirvana by Lord Mahavira, their 24th Tirthankara, in 527 BCE. Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas on Diwali, commemorating the release of their sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind, from imprisonment by the Mughal emperor Jahangir. Thus, Diwali has a multi-faith significance, uniting communities across India in celebration of spiritual freedom and righteousness.
The Five Days of Diwali
Diwali is not limited to just one day of celebration; it is a five-day festival, each with its unique traditions and customs.
Dhanteras: The festival begins with Dhanteras, a day dedicated to the worship of Dhanvantari, the god of health and Ayurveda. People buy new utensils, jewelry, or other valuables, as it is considered auspicious and bring good fortune.
Naraka Chaturdashi: On the second day, Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Chhoti Diwali, commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the cleansing of evil.
Lakshmi Puja: The third day, Diwali, is the main day of the festival. On this day, homes and temples are illuminated with oil lamps, and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, is worshipped. Families pray for health, wealth, and well-being in the coming year.
Govardhan Puja: The fourth day, Govardhan Puja, celebrates the lifting of Mount Govardhan by Lord Krishna to protect the people of Vrindavan from a devastating storm.
Bhai Dooj: The festival concludes with Bhai Dooj, a day celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for the long life and well-being of their brothers, while brothers vow to protect their sisters.
Lights, Prosperity, and Family
Diwali is known for its dazzling display of lights. Homes, streets, and temples are decorated with rows of earthen lamps, fairy lights, and candles. The lighting of these lamps symbolizes the dispelling of darkness and the inner awakening of spiritual insight. In modern times, fireworks have also become a central part of the celebration, adding to the festive cheer.
Beyond the lights and fireworks, Diwali is also a time for family gatherings, exchanging gifts, and feasting. Traditional sweets like laddoos, jalebis, and gulab jamuns are prepared and shared with loved ones. New clothes are worn, and homes are thoroughly cleaned, symbolizing the ushering in of new beginnings and prosperity.
Spiritual Reflection and Renewal
While Diwali is filled with fun, joy, and feasting, its underlying significance is deeply spiritual. The festival is a time to reflect on one’s inner light and renew the commitment to righteous living. It is a time to let go of negative energies, overcome obstacles, and embrace the values of kindness, truth, and compassion.
In essence, Diwali transcends the lighting of lamps and fireworks. It is a celebration of the human spirit, a reminder of the power of hope, and a call to embrace the light of wisdom and love, not just on one day, but every day of the year.