Diwali Holiday: Dates, Customs & History

Kyivstar Admin

You need 2 min read

·

Post on Nov 01, 2024

41 visitor like this post

Share

Diwali Holiday: Dates, Customs & History

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant and joyous festivals celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains worldwide. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. Celebrated annually in autumn, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his vanquishing of the demon king Ravana.

Diwali Holiday Dates

The date of Diwali varies each year as it is based on the Hindu lunisolar calendar. Diwali falls on the new moon night in the month of Kartik (October-November in the Gregorian calendar). In 2023, Diwali will be celebrated on November 12th.

Diwali Customs & Traditions

Diwali is a vibrant festival filled with numerous traditions and customs. Here are some of the key highlights:

1. Cleaning and Decorating: Homes are thoroughly cleaned and decorated with diyas (clay lamps), candles, and rangolis (colorful patterns made on the floor).

2. Lakshmi Puja: On Diwali night, people worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. They offer prayers and light diyas to welcome her into their homes.

3. Firecrackers: Fireworks and firecrackers are an integral part of Diwali celebrations, adding to the festive atmosphere.

4. Gifts and Sweets: Sharing gifts and sweets with family and friends is a cherished tradition. Popular sweets include ladoo, barfi, and gulab jamun.

5. New Clothes and Jewelry: Diwali is an occasion to wear new clothes and adorn oneself with new jewelry, symbolizing new beginnings.

6. Gambling: Diwali is also associated with gambling, although this is a more informal tradition, often involving friendly games with family and friends.

The History of Diwali

The origins of Diwali can be traced back to ancient India. While the festival is closely associated with Lord Rama's return, it also has connections to other legends:

• The story of Narakasura: In some regions, Diwali commemorates Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura.
• The story of Yama and Yami: Another legend connects Diwali to the story of Yama, the god of death, and his sister Yami, who is said to have visited her brother on Diwali.

Diwali is a multifaceted festival with historical, religious, and cultural significance. It is a time for joy, celebration, and reflection, embodying the triumph of light over darkness.

Conclusion

Diwali is a vibrant and meaningful festival that brings families and communities together. It is a time for joy, light, and the celebration of good over evil. Whether you celebrate it religiously or culturally, Diwali is a festival that resonates with the universal desire for prosperity, peace, and happiness.