One of the most popular festivals of Hinduism. It is the festive mood in the air that makes you happy! join us to know more!
Diwali (Deepavali) is the Hindu festival of lights celebrated every year in autumn in the northern hemisphere (spring in the southern hemisphere). Hindus across the world celebrate Diwali in honor of the return of Lord Rama, wife Sita, brother Lakshmana and Lord Hanuman to Ayodhya from exile of 14 years after Rama defeated Ravana.
Why is it Special?
It spiritually signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair.
Its celebration includes millions of lights shining on housetops, outside doors and windows, around temples and other buildings in the communities and countries where it is observed.
The festival preparations and rituals typically extend over a five-day period, but the main festival night of Diwali coincides with the darkest, new moon night of the Hindu Lunisolar month Kartika in Bikram Sambat calendar (the month of Aippasi in Tamil Calendar). Before Diwali night, people clean, renovate, and decorate their homes and offices.
On Diwali night, people dress up in new clothes or their best outfit, light up diyas (lamps and candles) inside and outside their home, participate in family puja (prayers) typically to Lakshmi – the goddess of fertility and prosperity.
After puja, fireworks follow, then a family feast including mithai (sweets), and an exchange of gifts between family members and close friends. Diwali also marks a major shopping period in nations where it is celebrated.
back to ancient times in India, as a festival after the summer harvest in the Hindu calendar month of Kartika.
- Dhanteras (Day 1)
- Naraka Chaturdasi (Day 2)
- Lakshmi Puja (Day 3)
- Padwa, Balipratipada (Day 4)
- Bhai Duj, Bhaiya Dooj (Day 5)
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