Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Celebrated by millions of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists around the world, Diwali is a five-day festival filled with vibrant customs, delicious food, and social gatherings. In India, it’s a time when homes are illuminated, gifts are exchanged, and families come together to celebrate.
Find the best deals on FLIGHTS and ACCOMMODATIONS for your next trip!The Origin and Significance of Diwali
Diwali holds various significances depending on the region and religion. The most commonly known Hindu tradition associates Diwali with the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile, during which Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps to celebrate their return, hence the lighting of lamps, known as diyas, became a central element of Diwali.
For Jains, Diwali marks the attainment of moksha (liberation) by Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. Sikhs celebrate it to commemorate the release of Guru Hargobind Ji and 52 other princes from imprisonment by the Mughal emperor Jahangir.
The Five Days of Diwali
Diwali is celebrated over five days, each holding special significance:
Day 1: Dhanteras (Wealth and Prosperity)
Dhanteras is the first day of Diwali and is dedicated to the worship of wealth and prosperity. People buy gold, silver, and new utensils as it is believed to bring good luck. Homes are cleaned and decorated with rangolis (intricate patterns made with colored powders) and diyas to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi (Kali Chaudas or Choti Diwali)
This day symbolizes the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. It is believed that taking a bath before sunrise on this day can wash away all sins. People burst firecrackers in the evening and light lamps to drive away evil spirits.
Day 3: Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali Festival)
The third day is the most important day of Diwali, where families perform Lakshmi Puja. Goddess Lakshmi, along with Lord Ganesha, the god of wisdom, is worshipped for wealth, prosperity, and happiness. Homes and temples are lit with diyas and fairy lights. Fireworks are an essential part of this day as they symbolize the celebration of light over darkness.
Day 4: Govardhan Puja (Annakut)
On this day, people celebrate Lord Krishna's lifting of Mount Govardhan to protect the villagers from torrential rains sent by Lord Indra. People prepare large meals and offer them to God in gratitude. In some parts of India, it is also known as Annakut, where a mountain of food is created to offer to deities.
Day 5: Bhai Dooj (Bhaiya Dooj)
Bhai Dooj is the final day of Diwali and celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform a ritual where they apply a tilak (a mark) on their brothers' foreheads and pray for their long life and prosperity. In return, brothers give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect them.
Customs and Traditions
The celebration of Diwali is rich with traditions, and its observances vary across regions and communities. Here are some common customs:
Lighting Diyas and Firecrackers
Lighting oil lamps or diyas outside homes is one of the most recognized customs of Diwali. It represents the victory of light over darkness and hope over despair. Fireworks are set off to celebrate the joy of the festival.
Rangoli
People create beautiful rangoli patterns on the floor near the entrance of their homes. These intricate designs are made using colored powders, rice, flower petals, or even salt. Rangolis are meant to welcome prosperity and good luck.
Gift Exchanges
Families and friends exchange sweets, dry fruits, and gifts to convey love and goodwill. It’s a way to strengthen social bonds during the festive period.
Feasting
Diwali is synonymous with delicious food. Every household prepares a wide variety of sweets (mithai) such as laddoos, barfis, and gulab jamuns, along with savory snacks like samosas and pakoras. Special meals are prepared for the family and guests.
New Clothes and Decorations
Wearing new clothes during Diwali is believed to attract positive energy and good fortune. People also decorate their homes with flowers, lights, and festive decor.
Regional Variations of Diwali
Diwali is celebrated in different ways across India:
North India
Diwali in North India focuses on the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya. In cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Varanasi, grand celebrations are held, including elaborate Lakshmi pujas, fireworks, and large community feasts.
South India
In South India, Diwali is called Deepavali, and it commemorates Lord Krishna's defeat of Narakasura. Celebrations start early in the morning with oil baths, followed by offerings to ancestors, and a feast.
West India
In Gujarat, Diwali is celebrated with Lakshmi Puja and is also considered the start of a new financial year. Business owners often close their old accounts and open new ones during the festival.
East India
In Bengal, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja, where the goddess Kali, the embodiment of power and destruction of evil, is worshipped. Homes are lit with lamps, and offerings are made to the goddess.
Global Celebration of Diwali
Diwali is not just celebrated in India; it is recognized and celebrated globally, especially in countries with large Indian communities like Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Mauritius, Trinidad and Tobago, Fiji, and the UK. In the UK, the cities of Leicester and London witness large Diwali celebrations with street fairs, music, and fireworks. Similarly, New York and Toronto also hold grand Diwali celebrations, often with Bollywood-style cultural performances.
Environmental Concerns and Sustainable Celebrations
In recent years, concerns over air pollution caused by firecrackers have led to calls for eco-friendly Diwali celebrations. Many people now opt for green firecrackers or avoid them altogether, focusing on lighting lamps and spending quality time with loved ones. Using natural dyes for rangolis, avoiding plastic decorations, and donating to the less fortunate are other ways people are trying to make Diwali more sustainable.
Diwali is much more than a festival of lights; it is a time for joy, reflection, and renewal. Rooted in ancient traditions, it carries a universal message of hope, compassion, and unity. Whether it's the lighting of diyas, the bursting of crackers, or the sharing of sweets, Diwali brings people together in celebration of the good things in life.