Diwali: Celebrating the Festival of Lights with Tradition, Joy, and New Beginnings

Diwali, derived from the Sanskrit word Deepavali (a row of lights), is celebrated every year across India and by Indian communities worldwide. This five-day festival typically falls between October and November, depending on the lunar calendar. Diwali holds spiritual significance across different regions and religions in India, symbolizing hope, prosperity, and the triumph of good over evil.

In Hindu tradition, Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. In Jainism, Diwali marks Lord Mahavira’s attainment of moksha, or liberation. Sikhs celebrate it as Bandi Chhor Divas, a day when Guru Hargobind Ji was released from imprisonment. These diverse interpretations contribute to the richness of the celebration.

Diwali preparations begin well in advance. Families clean and decorate their homes to welcome the goddess Lakshmi, who symbolizes wealth and prosperity. Homes are often adorned with colorful rangolis, traditional art designs created at entrances to bring good fortune. Many also use marigold garlands and torans (door hangings) for added festivity.

Shopping for new clothes, jewelry, and gifts is another essential aspect of Diwali. Markets bustle with people buying items for themselves and their families, as well as decorations and sweets for the festival. The tradition of wearing new clothes symbolizes new beginnings and a fresh start.

Diwali festivities start with Dhanteras, a day dedicated to wealth and prosperity. People often buy gold, silver, or utensils as an auspicious beginning. The second day, Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, involves lighting diyas and small-scale celebrations.

The main day of Diwali, also known as Lakshmi Puja, is marked by prayers to the goddess Lakshmi and the lighting of oil lamps to signify the removal of darkness. Families perform pujas (prayer rituals) at home or visit temples. Fireworks follow, lighting up the night sky and adding to the festive atmosphere.

The following days, Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj, focus on honoring bonds between family members, particularly the sibling relationship. Bhai Dooj is a celebration of the love between brothers and sisters, strengthening family ties and reaffirming bonds of affection.

Diwali is incomplete without the exchange of sweets, a symbol of sharing happiness and prosperity. Traditional treats include laddoos, jalebi, barfi, and gulab jamun, while savory snacks like chakli and namak pare are also enjoyed. Friends and family exchange boxes of these treats as tokens of love and appreciation.

Gift-giving is another cherished Diwali custom. From clothing and jewelry to electronic gadgets, the choice of gifts is as varied as the people celebrating. Many businesses also partake in the tradition by giving gifts to employees, reflecting the sense of togetherness and gratitude associated with Diwali.

In recent years, there’s been a push for celebrating an eco-friendly Diwali. Many families are opting for clay diyas instead of electric lights, reducing firework usage to limit pollution, and emphasizing green practices like using natural colors in rangoli. The idea is to keep the spirit of the festival alive while being mindful of the environment.

Diwali celebrations extend beyond India to countries with large Indian communities, such as Nepal, Malaysia, Singapore, Mauritius, and the United Kingdom. Each country adds its unique flavor to the festival while preserving the core traditions of light, unity, and joy.

Diwali is much more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of life, hope, and new beginnings. Whether through lighting diyas, sharing sweets, or spending time with loved ones, Diwali brings people together to reflect on the values of peace, prosperity, and goodwill. As we celebrate this Festival of Lights, may it bring joy, harmony, and prosperity to all.