Diwali (Deepavali)
Introduction
Diwali, also known as Deepavali meaning “row of lights,” is the most celebrated and grandest festival in Hinduism. Known as the Festival of Lights, it symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. Diwali is a five-day celebration that includes Dhanteras, Naraka Chaturdashi, the main Diwali day with Lakshmi Puja, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. Homes, temples, and public spaces are illuminated with oil lamps (diyas), candles, and decorative lights, creating a spectacular atmosphere of joy and festivity.
When It Is Celebrated
Diwali falls on the Amavasya (new moon night) of Kartika month in the Hindu calendar, which corresponds to October or November in the Gregorian calendar. The five-day festivities begin on Kartika Krishna Trayodashi (Dhanteras) and conclude on Kartika Shukla Dwitiya (Bhai Dooj). The main Lakshmi Puja is performed on the darkest night of the year, the Amavasya, signifying that even the deepest darkness can be dispelled by light.
Mythological Story
Several mythological narratives are associated with Diwali. The most widely known story comes from the Ramayana: Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after completing fourteen years of exile and defeating the demon king Ravana in Lanka. The people of Ayodhya welcomed him by lighting thousands of oil lamps throughout the city. Another significant legend connects Diwali to the emergence of Goddess Lakshmi from the cosmic ocean during Samudra Manthan (the churning of the ocean). This is why Lakshmi Puja holds central importance on this day. A third tradition associates Diwali with Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura.
Rituals and Celebrations
Preparations for Diwali begin days in advance with thorough cleaning and decoration of homes, believed to welcome Goddess Lakshmi. On the main day, families create rangoli patterns at their doorsteps and light rows of diyas. The evening puja involves installing idols or images of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, offering flowers, incense, sweets, and performing aarti. Merchants worship new account books and pray for prosperity in the coming year. Families exchange gifts and sweets, wear new clothes, and burst fireworks. Community gatherings and feasts are common throughout the celebrations.
Significance
Diwali carries profound spiritual and cultural significance. Spiritually, it represents the inner light that dispels the darkness of ignorance, reminding devotees to seek knowledge and righteousness. The worship of Lakshmi and Ganesha together signifies the pursuit of both material prosperity and wisdom, emphasizing that wealth without discernment is incomplete. Culturally, Diwali strengthens family bonds and community ties, as people come together to celebrate. For the business community, it marks the beginning of a new financial year. The festival transcends regional boundaries and is celebrated across India and by Hindu communities worldwide, each region adding its unique customs and traditions.