Diwali Festival

Diwali or Deepavali - Why Do We Celebrate It?

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is the festival of lights, celebrated with great joy and devotion across India and by Hindus worldwide. It signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. The festival usually spans five days, with the main celebration on the new moon night (Amavasya) in the Hindu month of Kartik (October–November).

📖 Historical & Mythological Significance

1. Return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya (Ramayana)

• The most popular legend says that after 14 years of exile and defeating Ravana, Lord Rama, along with Sita and Lakshmana, returned to Ayodhya.
• People welcomed them by lighting rows of oil lamps (diyas) — hence the name “Deepavali” (Deep = lamp, Avali = row).

2. Lord Krishna and Narakasura

• In another legend, Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura, freeing 16,000 women. This victory is celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi, the day before Diwali.

3. Goddess Lakshmi's Birth

• It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, emerged from the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan) on this day.
• Devotees worship Lakshmi on Diwali night for blessings of wealth, fortune, and happiness.

4. Pandavas Return (Mahabharata)

• The Pandavas returned to Hastinapur after 13 years of exile on Kartik Amavasya, and people lit lamps to welcome them.

 

💫 Spiritual & Cultural Importance

• Symbol of Inner Light: Diwali represents the awakening of the inner self and the triumph of spiritual light over ignorance.
• Community and Family Bonding: It's a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, sweets, and blessings.
• Auspicious for New Beginnings: Businesses start new financial books (Chopda Pujan), and people make investments or big purchases.

🪔 Five Days of Diwali