Wp/efi/Diwali

Diwali (Deepavali – Festival of Lights)

Diwali, also known as **Deepavali**, is one of the **most significant Hindu festivals**, celebrated across India and by Indian communities worldwide. It symbolizes the **victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil**.

The word "Deepavali" is derived from Sanskrit:

**Deepa** = lamp
**Avali** = row or line

So it means "a row of lamps."

When Is It Celebrated?

Diwali is observed on the **Amavasya (new moon)** of the **Kartika month** (October–November) according to the Hindu lunar calendar. The festival typically lasts for **five days**, each with unique religious and cultural significance.

Five Days of Diwali

1. Dhanteras

Celebrated two days before Diwali
Devotees worship **Dhanvantari**, the god of health, and **Lakshmi**, the goddess of wealth
People buy gold, utensils, and new items for the home

2. Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali)

Commemorates **Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura**
Symbolizes the **end of evil and impurities**
People take **ritual oil baths**, wear new clothes, and clean homes

3. Diwali (Main Festival Day)

Devotees worship **Goddess Lakshmi** for wealth and prosperity
**Lord Ganesha**, the remover of obstacles, is also worshipped
Houses are lit with **earthen lamps (diyas)**, decorated with **rangoli**, and people burst **firecrackers**

4. Govardhan Puja / Annakut

Celebrated mainly in North India
Commemorates **Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill** to protect villagers
Devotees prepare and offer **56 types of food (chappan bhog)**

5. Bhai Dooj

Celebrates the **bond between brothers and sisters**
Sisters perform **aarti** and pray for their brothers’ long life

Cultural and Regional Variations

**In North India** – Diwali celebrates **Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya** after defeating Ravana
**In South India** – Marks **Krishna's victory over Narakasura** or **the defeat of demon Bali by Vamana avatar**
**In West India** – Celebrated as the **start of a new financial year** (especially by traders and business communities)

Rituals and Traditions

**Lakshmi Puja** – Most important ritual on the main Diwali day
Lighting of **diyas, candles, and lanterns** to invite prosperity
Drawing colorful **rangoli** at entrances
**Exchanging sweets and gifts** among family and friends
Wearing **new clothes** and decorating homes
**Crackers and fireworks** to mark joy (in moderation due to environment)

Environmental Awareness

In recent years, many people are opting for:

**Eco-friendly Diwali** – using **clay diyas**, avoiding plastic, and reducing firecracker use
Promoting **Green Diwali** campaigns to protect animals and reduce air pollution

Importance in Other Religions

**Jainism** – Celebrates the **nirvana (liberation)** of Lord Mahavira
**Sikhism** – Marks the **release of Guru Hargobind Ji** and other prisoners from Gwalior Fort
**Buddhism (Newar)** – Celebrated as **Tihar** in Nepal among some Buddhist communities

Social and Economic Impact

Boosts **festive economy**, markets, and traditional artisans
Enhances **family bonding** and community spirit
Encourages **charity and giving**, especially to the poor and underprivileged

Related Festivals

**Karthika Masam** – Month that follows Diwali
**Karthika Deepam** – Another festival of lights in South India
**New Year (Gujarati, Marwari)** – Begins after Diwali
**Chhath Puja** – Celebrated a few days after Diwali in Bihar and Eastern India

References

1. Skanda Purana – Lakshmi Puja Mahatmya 2. Telugu Academy Cultural Studies – Deepavali 3. The Hindu – “India Illuminated by Festival of Lights” 4. Times of India – “Diwali Traditions and Eco-friendly Campaigns” 5. India Today – “Five Days of Diwali and Their Meaning”