subject: Diwali Celebrations in India [print this page] Diwali or Deepavali is one of the biggest festival of the culturally diverse nation that is India. The significance of the occasion is that it is a victory of light over darkness. It speaks of the qualities of optimism and positivity as an approach to life.
When is Diwali Celebrated?
Divali is celebrated on Amavasya which is the 15th day of the dark fortnight of the Hindu month of Ashwin, (October/November) every year. It is symbolic of the ancient Indian culture and traditions. The festival of lights as it is known today projects the rich and glorious past of India. Every year on Diwali the sound of firecrackers declare the happiness and joy evident in the hearts of Indians.
Diwali Celebrations
On the day of Diwali festival, torans made of mango leaves and marigold flowers are hung on doorways. Rangolis are drawn with different coloured powders to welcome guests. The traditional motifs are often linked with auspicious symbols of good luck. Oil diyas are arranged in and around the house. Because of these flickering lamps, the festival has acquired its name : Dipawali or Diwali meaning 'rows of lamps'.
On this day, people buy something for the house or some jewelry for the women of the house. It is auspicious to buy something metallic on Diwali festival, such as silver. People exchange sweets, wear new clothes and buy jewelry on this festive time. The arrival of this festival brings with it joyous shopping sprees for sweets, diwali gifts and fireworks.
Deepavali Pujan
Diwali is the festival of Laxmi, the Goddess of prosperity and wealth. It is believed that Goddess Laxmi visits everyone during Diwali and brings peace and prosperity to all. On the night of Diwali Lakshmi-Pujan is performed in the evenings. A traditional Pujan is performed after sunset in every home.
Five pieces of ghee diyas (lamps) are lit in front of the deities, naivedya of traditional sweets are offered to the Goddess and devotional songs are sung in praise of Goddess Laxmi. After Deepawali Puja people light diyas (lamps) in their homes, its relevance being bringing light to every darkness of the world.
