Deepavali, or Diwali, often called the “Festival of Lights,” is a five-day celebration rooted in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. According to the Hindu lunar calendar, the celebrations are held between mid-October and mid-November each year. This auspicious occasion commemorates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. The festival is celebrated with much fanfare across India, Nepal, and around the world amongst Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities.
Origins of Diwali
The story behind the beginning of Diwali differs based on regional folklore and religious texts. One popular account for Hindus tells the tale of Lord Rama’s return to his kingdom, Ayodhya, after 14 years in exile. To commemorate Lord Rama’s homecoming with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana after their victory over demon king Ravana, residents lit oil lamps (diyas) along their path as a way to guide them home.
Jains observe Diwali as the day Lord Mahavira, the last spiritual teacher in the Jain religion, attained Nirvana or eternal bliss after achieving spiritual freedom, known as Moksha. For Sikhs, Diwali commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji – the sixth Guru – from prison by Emperor Jahangir.
Traditions and rituals
Diwali preparations begin several weeks before the festival, with families cleaning their homes, shopping for new clothes and decorations, and buying gifts for friends and loved ones.
Each day of the festival has its specific significance:
1. Dhanteras: The first day is synonymous with wealth. Hindus worship Goddess Lakshmi and purchase gold or silver items and new utensils.
2. Naraka Chaturdashi: The second day involves an early morning ritual bath followed by prayers before sunrise to vanquish evil spirits.
3. Lakshmi Puja: On the main day of Diwali, people worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, alongside Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.
4. Govardhan Puja: This day is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is believed to have lifted the Govardhan Hill with his finger to protect his people from torrential rains.
5. Bhai Dooj: The last day of Diwali marks the bond between siblings, as sisters apply tilak (holy mark) on their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their well-being.
During Diwali, the streets, homes, and shops are adorned with oil lamps (diyas) and colourful rangolis (a traditional art form made of coloured powders or sand arranged in intricate patterns). Festive food like ladoos (a spherical sweet from the Indian subcontinent made of various ingredients and sugar syrup) and jalebis (sweet snacks)are prepared, and fireworks add a dazzling display to the night sky.
Celebrations around the world
Diwali isn’t just celebrated in India and Nepal; it is a global festival observed by Hindu communities worldwide, including countries like Malaysia, Mauritius, Fiji, Singapore, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. The celebrations include diverse cultural events such as traditional dance performances, concerts, and communal feasts. In some countries like the United States and the UK, official events or receptions are organized to celebrate Diwali.
In summary, Diwali is a vibrant and joyous occasion that symbolises the power of light over darkness. Its rich tradition and historical origins create a unique blend of spiritual consciousness and cultural diversity. No matter how it is celebrated around the world or which regional roots it has grown from, be it Rama’s homecoming or Mahavira’s Nirvana, Diwali bonds people together.
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