Diwali/Deepavali

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most revered and widely celebrated Hindu festivals in India. Symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, the festival garners significant religious and cultural importance. It is a five-day-long occasion, marking the beginning of the Hindu New Year and engaging in various rituals, customs, and festivities that reflect the spirit of joy, hope, and togetherness.

The origin of Diwali dates back to ancient Indian mythology, with different regions attributing its celebration to various events and deities. While North India commemorates Lord Rama's homecoming after 14 years of exile and victory against the demon king Ravana, South India commemorates it with the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. The festival serves as a reminder of these great events from Indian mythology and promotes a sense of national and cultural identity among the people. Key aspects of Diwali that hold significance for the Indian populace include the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, along with Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.

The observance of Diwali in India involves a multitude of rituals and customs spread across five days. People thoroughly clean and decorate their homes with flowers, rangoli, and diyas (oil lamps) while shopping for new clothes, sweets, and gifts. Traditional dishes are prepared, and families come together to indulge in feasting and merry-making. The festival reaches its peak with the bursting of fireworks and exchange of gifts among friends and family. Diwali usually falls between mid-October and November, with the main celebration taking place on the darkest new moon night of the Kartik month in the Hindu calendar. This year, Diwali will be celebrated on November 4, encapsulating the true essence of festive joy and enthusiasm across India.