Festival of lights Diwali | How Diwali is celebrated in India

Diwali, also known as the festival of lights, is celebrated every October. The word ‘Diwali’ originated from the Sanskrit word ‘Deepavali’ where ‘deepa’ means ‘light’ and ‘vali’ means ‘row’; thus a row of lights, which is exactly seen in homes during this time. Diwali is celebrated on Amavasya or ‘no moon day’ according to the Hindu calendar. It is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs. It is considered as a celebration of good over evil. On this day people light up the homes and hearts of communities all over the world. During the five days, houses are lit up by diyas and candles, and the exteriors are often decorated with electric lights.

Many stories depict the celebration of Diwali in Hindu mythology. Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya with his wife Sita Devi, and brother Lakshmana, after 14 years spent in exile. Villagers used festive lights to light the path for Rama, who had defeated the demon king Ravana, relieving people from the shackles of darkness. Stories of Lord Rama and Ramayana mark the celebration of Diwali in some areas. Another victorious event that marks this day more auspicious is Lord Krishna defeating the demon Narakasura, who ruled Pragjyotishapura, which explains why some people also celebrate their freedom in the form of the festival, Diwali.

Hindu Goddess Lakshmi is celebrated and worshipped as the Goddess of Prosperity around the country during Diwali. She is said to have chosen Lord Vishnu to be her husband on the night of Diwali. An elaborate puja is performed to bring in the new year with all luck and prosperity as per the Hindu calendar. Families dress up in festive finery. During the puja rituals, the main door is kept open as a symbol of inviting the Goddess into homes to bring in good wealth and health.

On this day people welcome each other by gifting and enjoying sweets. Friends, family, neighbors, and acquaintances exchange boxes of colorful delicious Indian sweets, such as ladoos, barfis, pedas, and jalebis. Dry fruits and chocolates also find their way into the boxes.

On Diwali, the air is filled with the smell of incense and burning crackers marked as a treat to watch. Some people celebrate Diwali in a loud and colorful way whereas others enjoy spending time with their family enjoying the bite of sweets.

Finally, HinduTone wishes everyone reading this a happy, safe, and ladoos filled Diwali!