Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is the Festival of Lights and marks the New Year according to the Hindu calendar.
Celebrated annually in India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and other regions, the name Diwali is derived from Sanskrit, meaning "Line of lanterns" or "Spread of light."
Diwali is observed not only by Hindus but also by Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists. The festival typically lasts for five days, though in some places, it can extend to nine days depending on local customs.
There are various theories about the origins of Diwali. According to the famous Indian epic, the Ramayana, the festival commemorates the return of Prince Rama—an incarnation of the god Vishnu—to his royal palace in Ayodhya after spending 14 years in exile in the forest with his wife, Queen Sita, and his younger brother, Prince Lakshmana. The celebration of this joyous event is a central theme of Diwali.
In 2022, Diwali will be celebrated on October 24th. Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, occurs on the new moon day, which is the darkest day of the year when no moon is visible. During the celebrations, various lights such as diya, oil lamps, lanterns, and candles are illuminated. This tradition is meant to attract the goddess Lakshmi, who symbolizes beauty, wealth, fertility, and good fortune, to visit homes and bestow prosperity in the new year. The festival represents the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, as well as the dispelling of greed and bad habits. A significant ritual during Diwali is "Lakshmi Puja" (Puja meaning worship), which honors the goddess Lakshmi.
Diwali is often referred to as the festival of 'giving' and 'forgiving.' During this time, it is customary to exchange sweets, dried fruits, gifts, and other tokens with friends and family. It is also a moment to let go of past grievances and mend relationships, enriching the festive spirit and fostering joy and harmony.
Diwali is widely regarded as an excellent time for shopping, with numerous sales and promotions beginning a month prior to the festival. During this period, economic activity peaks as people purchase items such as gold and silver jewelry, tableware, and clothing. The Diwali season is a bustling time for celebration.
Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrates hope, happiness, and the strengthening of bonds.✨
Ambika wishes everyone joy and prosperity!
*Bandi Chhor Divas commemorates the day when Guru Har Gobind, the sixth Guru of Sikhism, freed 52 imprisoned kings.
*The day marks the death anniversary of Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, who achieved Nirvana (liberation from reincarnation).
