DIWALI
What is the
significance of Diwali?
Diwali is a short
form of the Sanskrit word Deepavali which means "a row of
lights" or "many lights". All festivals in India have a
special social, cultural and religious significance. Most
of our festivals in the Hindu Culture are to celebrate the
victory of good over evil. In this sense, Diwali is part of
a five day celebration of many blessings.
Diwali, the
festival of lights, commemorates the day when
Lord Rama
returns to Ayodhya, Lord Vishnu rescued Goddess Lakshmi
from King Bali, and Lord Krishna’s victory over the
dreaded demon, Naraksura.
Lord Rama,
Sita and Lakshmana returned to Ayodhya after 14 years
of Lord Rama's exile. Happiness, peace and harmony
came back to Ayodhya.
The people of
Ayodhya were so delighted that they lit earthen oil lamps
(divas) to welcome and guide Lord Rama to Ayodhya after
his victory over Ravana, the Evil King of Lanka.
A diva lamp
has a single wick and is usually brightly coloured.
Some people light decorated candles, some decorated
clay diva lamps, and other decorative lights and put
them in their windows for the festival.
The first
day is celebrated as Dhanteras. Laxmi, the goddess of
wealth is worshipped. Entrances are decorated with
beautiful
rangoli motifs to welcome the goddess.
Earthern lamps (signifying purity) are kept burning
through out the night to ward off any evil shadows.
The second
day is celebrated as Kali Chaudas or Naraka Chaturdashi.
Kali, the goddess of strength is worshipped on this day.
The third day
is Diwali or Laxmi Pujan. Goddess Saraswati, the goddess
of knowledge, is also worshipped along with Laxmi. It is
traditional to get up early for an oil bath. Most of the
day is spent in visiting relatives and friends, exchanging
sweets and lighting fire crackers.
The fourth day
is Padwa or New year. Govardhan puja is performed. It was
this day when Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan mountain
on his little finger to save the people of Gokul from a
life threatening storm which was a result of Lord Vishnu's
fury.
The final
fifth day is Bhai Bhij. It signifies the love between
brothers and sisters. Legend says that the Lord of Death,
once visited his sister who was very glad to see him.
She greeted him with a red tilak and lots of delicacies.
Yama was content to see his sister happy. Before leaving,
they exchanged gifts to mark their love for each other.
Yama then announced that any brother who visits his sister
on this day will prosper and be successful in whatever he
does. Hence, since then it has been customary for brothers
to visit their sisters on this particular day.
Please note:
The above information provided may differ in text in
different regions' interpretation.
