History, Traditions And Significance Of The Festival

Diwali (Deepawali), also known as the festival of lights, is the most important and widely celebrated festival of Hinduism. This festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. This festival, celebrated on the new moon day of the month of Kartik, is celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout India and in various countries around the world where Indian communities live.

Religious significance and stories of Diwali

Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya: The most important reason for Diwali is the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after ending 14 years of exile. When Lord Rama, Mother Sita and Lakshman returned to Ayodhya after killing Ravana, the people of the city lit lamps to welcome them and filled the entire city with light. This festival is celebrated in memory of that incident. Birthday of Mother Lakshmi: It is a religious belief that Mother Lakshmi was born on this day during the churning of the ocean. Therefore, Lakshmi Puja is specially performed on the day of Diwali. People believe that on this day Goddess Lakshmi comes to the houses and blesses with happiness, prosperity, and wealth. Lord Krishna and the Killing of Narakasura: A day before Diwali, Lord Krishna killed the demon Narakasura and freed 16,100 girls from his terror. Therefore, this day is also celebrated as the end of evil and the victory of good. Beginning of Vikram Samvat: Diwali is also considered as the New Year in Gujarat and Rajasthan. It is celebrated as Vikram Samvat, which marks the beginning of a new year. Traders and business people start their new account books on this day.

Five-day celebration of Diwali festival

The festival of Diwali is not only for one day, but it lasts for five days. Each day has its own special significance: Dhanteras:On this day, Lord Dhanvantri is worshipped, who is considered the father of Ayurveda and medicine. This day is considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity, and people buy new items, especially metals such as gold, silver, or utensils. Narak Chaturdashi (Kali Chaudas/Chhoti Diwali): This day is celebrated to commemorate the killing of Narakasura. This day is considered a symbol of destroying evil and laziness. People take abhyanga bath and decorate houses. Deepawali: On the night of Amavasya, lamps are lit and Lakshmi is worshipped. On this day, lamps and lights have special significance in the house. Everyone decorates their houses with lamps and worships Lakshmi ji. Govardhan Puja: On this day, Govardhan Puja is performed by remembering the story of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan mountain. This day is a symbol of reverence towards agriculture and animal husbandry. Bhai Dooj:On Bhai Dooj, sisters pray for their brothers' long life and happiness and prosperity. It shows the sweetness of the brother-sister relationship and their mutual love.

Significance and Traditions of Diwali

Lakshmi Pujan: On this day, people especially worship Lakshmi in their homes. People believe that Mother Lakshmi goes from house to house on this day and resides permanently where there is cleanliness, light of lamps, and peace. Lighting lamps:Lighting lamps is the most important part of Diwali. It is considered the end of darkness and the arrival of light. Darkness is dispelled by lighting lamps in every corner of the house. Making Rangoli:Making Rangoli at the entrance of houses is considered a symbol of good luck. Rangoli brings positive energy to the house and welcomes Goddess Lakshmi. Sweets and dishes: Various types of sweets and dishes are made on the occasion of Diwali. Sharing them with family and friends increases the happiness of this festival. Burning crackers: Crackers are also used in Diwali, which is considered a symbol of happiness. But awareness is increasing that to save the environment, diyas and lights should be used more instead of crackers.

Social and cultural importance of Diwali

Diwali is not only a religious festival, but it is also very important socially and culturally. This festival: Gives the message of unity and brotherhood to the people. Spreads love and harmony in relationships. Inspires to share happiness in the society and help others. The message of Diwali is to remove darkness and bring light in life. It teaches us that any difficulty can be faced with courage, love and solidarity.