Deepawali, or Diwali as it is popularly known, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in India-the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. Celebrated under a joyful atmosphere celebrating communal, devotional, and celebrational fervors, this function definitely stands out uniquely. This feast is characterized by bright, vibrant celebrations along with spiritual rituals and social gatherings.
Going back to ancient traditions, the name of the festival ‘Deepawali’ is literally “a row of lights,” and the purpose of the festival is to light up home and surroundings in order to invite happiness and prosperity. It is a festival which is a commemoration of Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana by lighting oil lamps, which symbolize the victory of good over evil.
It is also associated with the Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity and riches, and Lord Ganesh. Their worship on this day ensures a year full of happiness and overall well-being.
It lasts for five days, it begins with Dhanteras and ends with Bhaiya Dooj. Celebrations depend on the place; in Maharashtra, celebrations begin a day earlier, with Govatsa Dwadashi, while in Gujarat, they start two days earlier, with Agyaras, and end with Labh Panchami. In 2024, Diwali falls on Thursday, November 1st. Celebrations will begin from October 28th.
The first day is offered to Lord Dhanvantari, who is the god of health and healing. People buy gold, silver, and new utensils on this day to welcome prosperity as well as good luck because acquiring valuable items on Dhanteras brings wealth and abundance all through the year.
The second day celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. Clean and decorate the home, light earthen lamps that dispel darkness and positivity. Many regions mark this day with firecrackers.
Dedicated especially to Goddess Lakshmi during the one day of celebrations, late in the evening, prayers for Goddess Lakshmi are held, known as Lakshmi Puja. People wish to get blessings from her in terms of wealth and prosperity. Rows of diyas and decorative lights illuminate the house, and families relish sweets, gifts, and joy.
On the fourth day, one worships Lord Krishna and the Govardhan Puja ceremony. Devotees prepare numerous delectable dishes as prasad for Lord Krishna, which symbolizes the food mountain. It is also the day when Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to save the villagers from heavy rains.
Bhai Dooj is the fifth and final day in which brothers and sisters worship each other. Sisters pray for their brothers for longer life and prosperity. Sisters made a promise for brothers’ protection. The day can be seen through exchanging gifts and sweets with love for siblings.
Deepawali is the festival celebrated with such grandeur across all the Indian territories and all over the world where Indian communities stay. The festival is a time of great joy, an occasion to unite families and friends who celebrate the beautiful thread of unity, love, and traditions.
The most important feature of Deepawali is lighting diyas and rangoli. Diyas represent the victory of light over darkness, as their flickering flames signify. Bright color rangoli welcomes guests, deities, and even seasons at the entrance of a home. Fireworks have been the hallmark of the celebration, although this practice has become more regulated due to environmental concerns. Green Crackers, being an eco-friendly alternative to fireworks that reduce pollution, are also coming into vogue.
The other tradition that is kept close to heart during Deepawali is exchanging gifts and sweets. Love and gratitude are expressed toward the family and friends through gifts, sweets, and dry fruits. Some of the most popular treats are laddu, barfi, kaju katli, and gulab jamun.
This festival centers on the worshiping of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, above all. Lakshmi Puja is performed with great devotion to seek blessings for financial success, well-being, and peaceful household. The remover of obstacles and provider of wisdom, the Lord Ganesha is honored during this time.
Deepawali 2024 is much more than a festival of lights; it is a day for life, prosperity, and eternal triumph of good over evil. The coming together of all communities to celebrate this joyful festival reflects family values, kindness, and oneness. Deepawali spirits inspire spreading light in the darkest corners, sharing joy with others, and reflection upon the blessings in life.
