Deepavali or commonly called Diwali is the festival of lights….the word “Deepavali” consists of two words “deep” meaning light and “avali” meaning row. It signifies the victory of good over evil, hope over misery, Knowledge over ignorance and light over darkness. The sky is pitch dark and people light up “diya” or lamp.
It is said that on this day Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya after spending 14 years in exile and defeating Ravana. People of Ayodhya lightened lamps in honor of his return. Every year Ayodhya urns ino a dreamland on Diwali. In 2021, 9 lakh earthen lamps were lightened up in Ayodhya Ram Mandir on Diwali.
People make rangoli wih flowers and color powder, decorate their homes with decorative lamps. Houses shine brighter on diwali with earthen lamps, electric lights, special candles etc etc :-}
This festival falls on Amavasya that is new moon day of either October or early November after 20 days after Dusshera. Five days celebration starts with Dhanteras and ends with bhai dooj (in Norh India) or bhai phota (in east India). On Dhanteras Lord of wealth Lord Kuber is worshipped. On bhai dooj or bhai phota sisters pray to Lord of death Yamaraj to lengthen the age of their beloved brothers.
In northern part of India on diwali Goddess Laxmi and Lord Ganesha are worshipped whereas in eastern part of India Goddess Kali is worshipped. In southern part of India the day before deepavali is associated with Lord Krishna’s friend Satyabhama slaying the demon Narakasura and then on the next day Goddess Laxmi is worshipped.
Although this is the festival of light, in recent years this has turned to “patakha” or fire crackers festival causing increase in noise and air pollution. Regulatory laws are there but unless we become more aware, this problem will continue to hurt the main spirit of this festival. As a person I feel we need to celebrate this festival sustainably so that our enjoyment does not harm mother nature.
Exchange of gifts occur on the occasion of diwali. Shopping malls, online fashion/household items etc. companies give festive offers. Sales increase rotating country’s economy.
Last but not the least diwali remains incomplete without diwali special food. Various sweet dishes are prepared a home. Sweet shops showcase their best sweets. People enjoy good food.
Let us pledge this diwali to spread good thoughts, positive hopes and work for sustainable future. Wishing you all Shubh Deepavali!
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