Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, and it is marked by various rituals, cultural practices, and celebrations across different regions of India.
Significance of Diwali
Diwali holds deep spiritual and cultural significance. The festival commemorates several key events:
- Return of Lord Rama: In North India, Diwali celebrates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, as narrated in the epic Ramayana. This symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.
- Victory of Lord Krishna: In South India, it marks Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, representing the removal of negativity.
- Worship of Goddess Lakshmi: The festival is also dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, who symbolizes wealth and prosperity. It is believed that she visits homes that are clean and well-lit during Diwali.
Rituals
Diwali spans five days, each with its own rituals:
- Dhanteras (October 28, 2024): Marks the beginning of Diwali. People clean their homes and purchase new items, especially gold or silver, as it is considered auspicious. Prayers are offered to Lord Dhanvantari for health.
- Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) (October 29, 2024): Celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. Rituals include early morning oil baths and lighting diyas to drive away darkness.
- Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali) (October 30, 2024): The most important day when families worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha for prosperity. Homes are decorated with diyas and rangoli.
- Govardhan Puja (October 31, 2024): Commemorates Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from torrential rain sent by Indra. It is also a time for merchants to open new account books for the financial year.
- Bhai Dooj (November 1, 2024): Celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brothers’ well-being, while brothers give gifts in return.
Celebrations in Different Regions
Diwali celebrations vary across India:
- North India: Focus on Lord Rama’s return; homes are illuminated with diyas and firecrackers are burst.
- South India: Emphasis on Naraka Chaturdashi; people take oil baths and offer prayers to Krishna.
- West India: In states like Gujarat and Maharashtra, Diwali marks the start of the new financial year; businesses perform rituals seeking blessings for prosperity.
- East India: In West Bengal, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja; devotees worship Goddess Kali for strength and protection.
Business Celebrations
Traditionally, businesses celebrate Diwali by:
- Closing old accounts and opening new ones to symbolize fresh beginnings.
- Performing Lakshmi Puja in offices to seek blessings for prosperity in the coming year.
- Engaging in festive activities such as exchanging sweets and gifts among employees.
Diwali is a time for joy, reflection, and community bonding, encouraging individuals to embrace positivity and light in their lives.
