Diwali – Celebrating The Festival Of Lights

Initially known as Deepawali and now shortened to Diwali, it is called the ‘festival of lights’. Lamps play a major role during this festival. Although a lot of religious communities celebrate Diwali, Hindus observe it with special mention. It is believed that Diwali is celebrated to remember Lord Rama’s triumphant return to Ayodhya after slaying demon king Ravana. Lamps were lighted in his kingdom for Lord Rama’s return to his people after a 14-year exile. Lighted lamps symbolise the triumph of good over evil and the banishing of darkness by light.

Some communities celebrate Diwali as a five-day affair. Pujas are offered to Goddesses Kali and Laxmi on the auspicious day. People often get together in their ancestral homes and visit their families. Loved ones buy each new clothes and utensils.

Diwali, now, has been much commercialised. Sales of firecrackers, lamps,oil, sweets, puja items and the like skyrocket during these times. This year Diwali falls on October 17. People from all walks of life celebrate this festival. Nepalis, too, celebrate this festival. An interesting feature of festivals celebrated in India is that any festival, irrespective of its religious significance it is celebrated across most religions. Just as you will find a Christmas Tree in the house of a non-Christian, during Christmas, so will you find lighted lamps in various households during Diwali.