Origins and Significance of Diwali
Historical Context
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a festival of lights celebrated by Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs worldwide, typically during October or November, and is considered the most significant festival in Hinduism.
It has roots that stretch back more than 2,500 years.
The name “Diwali” originates from the Sanskrit word “Dipavali,” which means “row of lights” – a central element in the celebrations.
Diwali commemorates various historical events and mythological tales, thus making it a rich and vibrant festival filled with deep cultural and religious significance.
Religious Significance
For Hindus, Diwali represents the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
An important aspect of the celebration revolves around the return of Lord Rama and his wife Sita after their exile and their victory over the demon king Ravana.
During Diwali, Hindus worship the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, and the god of wisdom, Ganesha.
In Jain tradition, Diwali marks the attainment of nirvana (liberation) by Lord Mahavira, one of the most significant figures in Jainism.
According to the legend, Mahavira achieved enlightenment on this day, and his followers light lamps in his honor.
For Sikhs, Diwali coincides with the celebration of Bandi Chhor Divas, which commemorates Guru Hargobind’s release from prison in 1619 and the return of Sikhs to the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
Diwali Across Cultures
Diwali is celebrated in various ways across different cultures, but the unifying theme is the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.
In Southern India, Diwali is associated with the defeat of the demon Naraka by Lord Krishna.
This victory is celebrated on the day known as Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali.
In the North, the legend of Emperor Bali plays a significant role, symbolizing the victory of Lord Vishnu over the powerful yet generous demon king Bali.
Yama, the god of death, and his sister Yami are also remembered during Diwali.
Sisters pray for their brothers’ long and prosperous lives, and brothers, in return, give gifts to their sisters in a tradition known as Bhai Dooj.
In India, Nepal, and other South Asian countries, life and culture are enriched by this diverse celebration of light, symbolizing hope and positivity.
The five-day festival involves cleaning homes, lighting lamps, exchanging gifts, and spending time with loved ones—all to honor the victory of light over darkness and to welcome prosperity and happiness into the lives of families and communities.
Celebrations and Traditions
Festive Activities
Diwali, also known as the festival of lights, is a major Hindu religious festival celebrated across India and other countries.
It involves various festive activities such as lighting oil lamps, bursting fireworks, and exchanging gifts among family and friends.
The festival is also observed by Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists, with each community having its unique ways of celebrating the occasion.
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Lighting oil lamps: Diwali gets its name from the Sanskrit term “dipavali,” meaning ‘row of lights’. During the festival, people light oil lamps or diyas made of clay in their homes and temples to signify the victory of knowledge over ignorance and hope over despair.
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Fireworks: Firecrackers play a significant role in Diwali celebrations, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. The vibrant fireworks display not only creates a festive atmosphere but is also believed to ward off evil spirits.
However, it’s important to note that there have been concerns about pollution caused by firecrackers during Diwali.
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Gifts: Diwali is also a time for exchanging gifts among family members, friends, and colleagues. Gifts typically include sweets, gold, new clothes, and other items signifying wealth and prosperity.
Diwali Preparations
The five-day festival begins with Dhanteras, a day when people clean their homes and buy gold or silver jewelry, considered auspicious.
They also purchase new clothes to wear throughout the festivities.
On the following day, called Narak Chaturdasi, families light 14 diyas in their homes to repel evil.
Diwali preparations also involve creating intricate rangoli patterns at the main entrance of houses using colored powders, rice, or flower petals to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
Signs of Prosperity and Good Fortune
Diwali is associated closely with wealth and prosperity.
Throughout the festival, people perform ‘Lakshmi Puja’ to seek blessings from Goddess Lakshmi.
The exchange of gold and gambling during the celebrations are believed to bring good fortune.
The festival also marks the beginning of the new financial year for some Indian businesses.
The lighting of lamps and the bright rangoli patterns are thought to guide Goddess Lakshmi to their homes and bring blessings of wealth, health, and happiness.
During Diwali, some Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, commemorating the release of Guru Hargobind from the Mughal Emperor Jahangir’s captivity, symbolizing spiritual victory and the triumph of good over evil.
In conclusion, Diwali is a diverse festival celebrated with great enthusiasm across different communities, featuring various customs and traditions focused on promoting the values of knowledge, hope, prosperity, and spiritual growth.