Diwali: A Festival of Light, Joy, and New Beginnings
This past Monday, October 20th, was the beginning of the five-day celebration of Diwali for millions of Hindu families across the globe. Also known as Deepavali, which means "Festival of Lights" in Sanskrit, Diwali is both a spiritual and cultural celebration. It marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year and symbolizes the victory of good over evil, of light shining triumphantly over darkness, and of joy shared among loved ones.
Diwali holds deep historical and mythological significance. According to the Times of India, “This day holds significance as it marks the return of Lord Ram, Sita, and his brother Lakshman to their home in Ayodhya after completing a 14-year exile and defeating Lord Ravana.” In celebration of their beloved king’s return, the people of Ayodhya lit up the kingdom with earthen lamps, set off fireworks, and decorated their homes. This tradition of lighting up homes and public spaces with lamps, or diyas, continues to this day, symbolizing hope, knowledge, and the triumph of righteousness.
The festival is also dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, prosperity, and well-being. Devotees believe that on Diwali, Maa Lakshmi descends to bless her followers with health, wealth, and happiness. “Lighting of Diyas and candles all around the house, worshipping the Laxmi Ganesha to summon health and wealth, and bursting crackers are the chief rituals of the festival,” according to Diwalifestival.org.
In homes across the world, this joyous holiday is marked by the lighting of candles and diyas, the creation of vibrant Rangoli designs using colored sand or rice, and the gathering of families for prayers, feasts, and celebrations. Special meals and sweets are prepared with love, bringing families and friends together. Diwali food traditions are rich and diverse, with delicious treats such as chirote (dessert pastries), karanji (stuffed pastry pockets), samosas (savory triangles filled with lentils and vegetables), and laddoos (sweet balls made with coconut, chickpea flour, and wheat semolina). Gifts are exchanged as tokens of affection and goodwill, spreading love and happiness throughout the community.
Though the customs of Diwali may vary across regions and cultures, there are common threads that unite all who celebrate it: the lighting of lamps, bursting of fireworks, Puja (prayers), the exchanging of gifts, acts of charity and donations, as well as Diwali fairs and cultural performances. These shared traditions serve to reinforce the values of generosity, joy, and spiritual reflection.
In essence, Diwali is more than just a festival—it is a reminder of hope, unity, and renewal.
Wishing you and your loved ones a healthy, joyous, and most prosperous Diwali!
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