Diwali: A Glorious Celebration
Diwali lightens a myriad of emotions in one’s mind, ranging from the warmth of family get-togethers, the sound of the bursting crackers, the colourful rangolis gracing the porch, flames dancing on painted diyas, lanterns brightening the evenings and special delicacies tantalizing the taste buds; Diwali truly marks as the festival of joy and togetherness.
Also referred as Deepavali, “Deep” means light and “avail” means row of lights defining the celebration as the festival of lights. Staying true to its definition, Diwali illuminates the country and brightens homes with happiness and revels.
The festival falls in the months of late October and November and on the 15th day of the Hindu month Karthik. Apart from the enthralling 5 days of fun that the festival promises Diwali also counts as the most auspicious day in the calendar.
The 5 days of Diwali are-
Day One- Dhanteras: Day of fortune
Day Two- Narakchaturdashi: Day of Knowledge
Day Three- Laxmi Poojan: Day of Light
Day Four- Annakut: New Year
Day Five- Bhai Duj: Day of love between siblings
Legends of Diwali
The most popular legend is that Ram returned to Ayodhya post the 14-year exile and after emerging victorious in the war with Ravana who had abducted Sita. The people were so ecstatic about his homecoming that they rejoiced by lighting up their houses and by distributing sweets to celebrate the return of their king.
The second legend says that the demon Naraksura who had received a boon of immortality had created havoc in the three worlds and Lord Krishna had to kill the demon, hence popularizing the day as Narakchaturdashi.
It is also believed that the festival is a celebration of the marriage between Goddess Laxmi and Lord Vishnu, while some also say that Goddess Laxmi was born on this day denoting the significance of Laxmi Poojan.
There are many other legends that are linked to Diwali as well like the return of Pandavas from exile and is also viewed as a harvest festival in some states.
Rituals of Diwali
Diwali celebrates the spirit of life in its purest essence. Virtues like giving and forgiving, prospering and progressing, uniting and unifying are celebrated in the festival.
Diwali is considered as an auspicious time to invest in gold and other important possessions. People wake up early to pray and an oil and ubtan bath is drawn to purify one’s mind and soul.
People decorate their homes, and goddess Laxmi is worshiped for wealth and success in one’s life. Special delicacies such as chakli, karanji, shankrpali and laddoo are prepared. Lighting of diyas and lanterns, creating rangolis and enjoying the Diwali melas count as the quintessential delights of the festival.
MARWAR wishes you a joyous and prosperous Diwali!
