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Diwali, Also known as Deepavali, is the most important holiday in India. Celebrated by millions of people all over the country and around the world, this colorful festival marks the culmination of a year’s hard work. Let us delve into its rich history, traditions, and significance.
The name Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Deepavali’ meaning ‘row of lights.’ For Hindus, this festival is as significant as Christmas is for Christians. Over time, it has evolved into a national festival that people from non-Hindu communities also enjoy.
Diwali holds deep spiritual meaning representing victory over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Lighting diyas signifies dispelling darkness or ignorance, while fireworks show happiness or rejoicing over this conquest. It also marks new beginnings along with rejuvenation of life, thereby inviting wealth or prosperity.
In north India, it celebrates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating demon king Ravana.
In South India, it signifies Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura.
In West India, it commemorates the demon King Bali being sent by Lord Vishnu to rule the netherworld.
For Sikhs, Diwali is a tribute paid to Guru Hargobind Ji’s release from prison.
Jains celebrate it as the day when Lord Mahavira attained nirvana.
Throughout the festival, candles are lit both inside homes and outside them so that nobody remains in the dark spiritually. Families give presents; and eat together wearing new clothes.
Diwali is celebrated with a lot of excitement and involves several important activities:
Lighting Diyas and Decorations: Houses, temples, and offices are decorated with diyas (oil lamps), candles, and lanterns to represent the inner light that wards off spiritual darkness.
Fireworks: Bursting firecrackers is an age-old tradition that stands for the happiness of the festival as well as triumph over evil by good or brightness.
Rangoli: Intricate designs are made on the floors of houses using colored powders or flowers in order to welcome gods & goddesses into one’s home while keeping away bad spirits.
Feasts and Sweets: Special meals and sweets like gulab jamun, barfi, samosas, etc, are prepared by families to celebrate this occasion.
Exchanging Gifts: It is customary for people to give each other presents during Diwali; this act symbolizes sharing joy & wealth among loved ones.
Wearing New Clothes: People wear new clothes or their best attire, often including traditional garments such as saris and jewelry sets, etc.
While retaining the core Indian festival ideals, these worldwide revelries are a blend of local practices and traditions.
With the Indian diaspora spreading across different countries in the world today, Diwali has become an international event that is celebrated worldwide. Various nations hold public events organized by local communities who share their cultural heritage with wider audiences. For instance;
In the USA, many cities, including Chicago, celebrate Diwali, while Times Square hosts one of the biggest events in New York each year, attracting thousands of participants.
In the UK, outside India, Leicester boasts one of the largest Diwali celebrations, which attracts visitors from all over Britain.
Australia Sydney Opera House was illuminated using colors representing Deepavali.
To keep the traditional Indian festival alive, global festivities blend local traditions with the basics.
