Diwali is also known as Deepawali in India and is one of the biggest festivals celebrated by all the Hindus in India and around the world.
It is derived from the words “Deepa,” which means lamp and “avali,” which means row. So, in Diwali, there are rows of lamps that spread light and protects against the darkness.
In the spiritual sense, Diwali helps in brightens the hearts and minds of people by removing dark and negative thoughts. It is also seen as a victory of good over evil, and light always removes the darkness.
According to the Hindu mythology, eons ago, Lord Rama came back home on this day after being in exile for 14 years. The entire path was illuminated with lamps made of clay to welcome him. Therefore, Hindus still follow this tradition and illuminate their houses every year on this day in the memory of the return of Lord Rama, Laxman, and Sita. It is also seen as a day of triumph of good over evil because Lord Rama defeated and killed Ravana during his exile.
However, this is not the only belief that all Hindus follow. This day is also dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, who is considered the goddess of prosperity and wealth in a family and business. Therefore, along with lighting the lamp in the house, Lakshmi pooja is also a part of Diwali celebrations. It is believed that worshipping Goddess Lakshmi can enhance prosperity as well as the wealth of a person. This is the time when people buy gold and silver coins or jewelry from the market because it is considered auspicious.
Apart from this. The festival also brings joy and happiness with a lot of food, parties, and family get-togethers. Women make beautiful and colorful designs at the entrance of the door, which is known as ‘Rangoli.’ This is done to make the entrance look beautiful and welcome Goddess Laksmi in the house. There is an environment of cheerfulness and happiness all around because vendors and shopkeepers extend their shops to add Diwali gifts. Families and friends exchange gifts with each other on the occasion of Diwali. These are usually sweets or dry fruits given with a lot of love.
Traditionally, firecrackers were also a part of this festival, but due to environmental reasons, most people opt for a “green” or “sustainable” Diwali and abstain from burning crackers. It is done to avoid sound and noise pollution. Another interesting part of this festival is gambling. Many families or friends get together on this day to gamble with playing cards. Some of these games go on for the entire night, but all this is done in a very friendly way. In the end, whoever wins, gets to eat a lot of sweets.
Bonfires, electric lights, glittering clay lamps, and delicious foods make this festival more fun and exciting. Over the centuries, Diwali is celebrated as the national festival of India and enjoyed by every Indian regardless of faith.