Diwali or Deepavali is an array of lights celebrated by lighting lamps of different types across the house. It is always beautiful to see all homes lit outside with oil and wick lamps. Every family has the habit of lighting lamps indoors and outdoors, and there is a competitive atmosphere to see who has lit the best and most innovative lamp designs.
Lighting a lamp (diya) symbolizes the removal of darkness, grief and unhappiness in one’s life!
There are many stories behind lighting lamps. Sharing some of them…!
- Early morning on the day of Diwali, after an oil massage to the head (yes.. early hours :)), one has a bath. This is equivalent to having a dip in the holy river Ganges. Interesting ritual after this is to check with your family and friends “Ganga snaanam acha?” meaning, did you get to take a holy dip in the Ganges?
- Some celebrate the festival as the day when Sri Rama returned back to Ayodhya after killing Ravana
- Some celebrate the festival as the day when Sri Krishna killed Narakasura (demon)
- For some, it as Mahavir Jayanthi
- There are special offerings to Kaali ma in Bengal on this day
- Celebrations start two days before Deepavali and extend to two days after it (5 days)
- Dhanvanthri (Physician of Gods), Lord Kubera (Treasurer of Gods), Kedara Gowri puja are some of the main festivals performed during the five days.
In north India, an image of Ravana is created and burned, depicting destruction of evil.
For youngsters at home, it is a time to eat a variety of sweets, savories, and nuts.
It is a time when parents, grandparents, children, families and relatives get together to spend time and enjoy good times and good food with their relatives.
HAPPY DIWALI
To all those who celebrate Deepavali (Diwali) – best wishes from our home to yours!
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