Diwali (pronounced duh-VAH-lee), also known as Deepavali, is a significant festival celebrated in Hinduism and also recognized by Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists. It’s India’s biggest and most important holiday of the year.
It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. The festival typically spans five days and occurs between mid-September and mid-November, aligning with the darkest night of the lunar calendar.
Festival of Lights
The name “Diwali” comes from the Sanskrit word “Deepavali,” meaning “row of lights.” Homes are adorned with oil lamps (diyas) and colorful decorations to symbolize inner light and spiritual awakening.
Unity & Community
Diwali fosters a sense of community as families come together to share meals, exchange gifts, and celebrate with fireworks. It serves as a time for renewal and reflection.
Feasting & Festivities
Each day of the five-day festival has a focus.
- Day One: People clean their homes and shop for gold or kitchen utensils to help bring good fortune.
- Day Two: People decorate their homes with clay lamps and create design patterns called rangoli on the floor using colored powders or sand.
- Day Three: On the main day of the festival, families gather for Lakshmi puja, a prayer to Goddess Lakshmi, followed by a feast and fireworks.
- Day Four: This is the first day of the new year and friends and relatives visit each other with gifts and best wishes.
- Day Five: Brothers visit their married sisters, who welcome them with love and a lavish meal.
Happy Diwali! Shubh (pronounced Shope) Diwali!
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