About Diwali
“Diwali, or “Deepavali” (meaning ‘row of lights‘), is one of the most significant and beloved festivals people celebrate across India and by the Indian diaspora globally.”
It is an extraordinary five-day festival that universally symbolizes the spiritual triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.
People typically observe the festival during the Hindu lunisolar month of Kartika (usually October or November).
The main celebration falls on the darkest new moon night (Amavasya), which millions of lamps (diyas), candles, and electric lights then brilliantly illuminate.
Profound Mythologies Behind the Celebration
While the central theme remains the victory of good, several incredible legends from various traditions link to Diwali:
- The Homecoming of Lord Rama (Hinduism): The most popular legend in North India celebrates the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his epic victory over the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit countless earthen lamps to light their path on the darkest night.
- The Emergence of Goddess Lakshmi (Hinduism): Diwali is primarily a time to worship Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. It is believed she was born on the new moon day of Kartika during the great Samudra Manthan (churning of the cosmic ocean). Devotees clean and decorate their homes to welcome her blessings.
- Lord Krishna’s Victory over Narakasura (Hinduism): In South India, the day before the main Diwali, known as Naraka Chaturdashi, commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, freeing 16,000 captive women and dispelling his tyrannical darkness.
- Nirvana of Lord Mahavira (Jainism): For Jains, Diwali marks the Nirvana Divas, the day Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, attained spiritual liberation.
- Bandi Chhor Divas (Sikhism): Sikhs celebrate Diwali as Bandi Chhor Divas (Day of Liberation). It commemorates the release of the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind, and 52 Hindu kings from a Mughal prison in 1619.
Who Celebrates This Festival?
A pan-Indian festival, Diwali draws celebrants primarily from:
- Hindus (as the Festival of Lights, focusing on Lakshmi and Rama).
- Jains (as Nirvana Day for Mahavira).
- Sikhs (as Bandi Chhor Divas).
- Newar Buddhists in Nepal.
The festival’s spirit of joy, unity, and hope transcends religious boundaries, making it a major cultural event for people of Indian heritage across the globe, including in the UK, US, Canada, Malaysia, Singapore, and Fiji.
How Diwali is Celebrated
The five-day festival is an elaborate affair, each day having unique rituals:
- Day 1: Dhanteras (Dhana Trayodashi): Worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari (the God of Health). It is auspicious to buy new items, especially gold, silver, or new utensils, symbolizing the purchase of good fortune.
- Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi / Choti Diwali: Commemorating the defeat of Narakasura. Celebrants take a ritual oil bath before sunrise for purification, followed by lighting smaller lamps and preparing for the main day.
- Day 3: Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali): The most important night. Families perform Lakshmi and Ganesha Puja (worship) for prosperity and wisdom. Homes are fully illuminated with diyas and lights. Feasts are prepared, sweets are exchanged, and in some regions, fireworks are lit.
- Day 4: Govardhan Puja / Balipratipada: Honoring Lord Krishna’s lifting of the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers, or commemorating Lord Vishnu’s victory over the demon-king Bali.
- Day 5: Bhai Dooj (Bhau Beej): Celebrating the sacred bond between brothers and sisters, with sisters performing a ritual for their brothers’ well-being and longevity.
Key Traditions:
- Deepdan (Lighting Lamps): Decorating homes with earthen lamps (diyas), lanterns, and electric lights.
- Rangoli: Creating intricate floor patterns using coloured rice, powders, or flower petals at the entrance to welcome deities.
- Puja (Worship): Performing prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and other deities.
- Mithai & Gifts: Exchanging traditional Indian sweets (like Laddoos, Barfi) and gifts among family and friends.
- Cleaning & Decorating: Undertaking a thorough “spring cleaning” of the home to ensure a clean, welcoming environment for Lakshmi.
Essential Precautions to Ensure a Safe Diwali
While the festival is all about light and joy, it is vital to celebrate responsibly to prevent accidents:
- Fire Safety:
- Place all diyas and candles on stable, non-flammable surfaces (e.g., stone, metal) and keep them well away from curtains, synthetic decorations, and electrical wiring.
- Keep a bucket of water and sand or a fire extinguisher readily accessible in areas where you light fireworks or many diyas.
- Clothing: Wear well-fitted cotton clothes when lighting lamps or fireworks. Avoid loose, flowing outfits and synthetic fabrics, as they are highly flammable.
- Firecrackers (If used):
- Only use fireworks in a designated, open area, away from vehicles, dry grass, and houses.
- Ensure strict adult supervision for children and teach them to maintain a safe distance.
- Never try to reignite a dud or half-burnt cracker; instead, douse it with water.
- Food Safety: Purchase sweets (mithai) from reputable vendors or opt for homemade ones to ensure quality and hygiene.
- Environmental & Health Concerns:
- Minimize the use of fireworks to reduce air and noise pollution, especially near hospitals and residential areas.
- Keep pets indoors in a quiet space, as loud noises can be distressing for them.
A Harmonious Conclusion: Illuminating the Future Safely
Diwali is a magnificent, uncommon celebration that beautifully encapsulates the powerful theme of spiritual liberation and the ultimate victory of righteousness.
As we light our lamps and share the festive cheer, it is paramount that we carry this joy forward by celebrating with great care. The true spirit of Diwali is rooted in spreading happiness, not causing harm.
By diligently following safety precautions—managing flames responsibly, wearing appropriate clothing, and respecting our environment—we ensure that this beloved Festival of Lights remains a source of positive, luminous memories.
Let us commit to a celebration free of accidents, honoring the ancient triumph of light over darkness in the safest and most emotional way possible.
Relevant Reference Links
Information on Diwali (Deepavali) – Wikipedia
Diwali: The Festival of Lights – National Geographic
History and Meaning of Diwali – BBC
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main message of Diwali?
The core message of Diwali is the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It is a time for self-reflection and renewal.
Which deities are worshipped during Diwali?
The primary deities worshipped are Goddess Lakshmi (for wealth and prosperity) and Lord Ganesha (for wisdom and removing obstacles). In some regions, Goddess Kali or Lord Vishnu’s forms are also worshipped.
Why is Diwali a five-day festival?
Diwali is a five-day festival with each day dedicated to a different mythological story, ritual, and theme, starting with Dhanteras and concluding with Bhai Dooj.
What is the significance of lighting Diyas?
Lighting diyas (oil lamps) symbolizes guiding the deities (especially Lakshmi and Rama) to one’s home and represents the physical and spiritual dispelling of darkness, welcoming light and positivity into life.
