Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, usually falls in either October or November as its date is based on the Hindu lunar calendar. This year, Diwali is celebrated on October 23rd as opposed to November 3rd last year.
Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists and is an important celebration as it celebrates victory of good over evil and light over darkness.
Diyas are lit to ward off evil and to usher in goodness with light. Diyas are small lanterns made of clay that hold purified butter, which in turn fuels the cotton wick within. Diyas are to be put out naturally and in most cases are left outside all night. Lit diyas also celebrate the guru’s homecoming.
Each religion celebrates Diwali for their own reasons:
Sikhs celebrate Diwali because their sixth guru, Guru Har Govind Singh Ji, was released from captivity. He had been prisoned by a Mogul emperor along with 52 other Sikh kings. After his release, Guru Har Govind Ji went straight to the foremost Sikh holy temple, Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple, in Amritsar to pray.
Hindus follow the legend of Lord Rama and his wife Sita’s return home after 14 years in exile and also of Lord Rama’s epic battle with the demon King Rawan, whom he kills. The people of Ayodha, home of Lord Rama, were so excited to hear that their beloved future king was coming home that they lit the way for him and his wife Sita with diyas. In the Hindu custom it is common to leave a few lights on in the home all night to ward off evil and to welcome the Goddess Lakshmi, goddess of wealth, to come bless the home.
For Jains Diwali is celebrated with devotion. On this day, their Lord Mahavira the 24th achieved Nirvana on Amavasya masa. The Lord left the body and achieved Mukti/liberation.
Buddhists celebrate Diwali in their own way. They chant the mantras and remember Emperor Ashoka who converted to Buddhism on this day.
Other than lighting the diyas, Diwali celebrators take this opportunity to dress up, exchange gifts with family and friends, indulge in yummy goodies, light fireworks and just have a great time with family and close one’s.
Below are some yummy common treats that are exchanged on Diwali:
Galab Jamons
Barfi
Jalebi
Ladoo
604 Now wishes everyone a happy Diwali and prosperous New Year!
