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Festival of lights, the victory of good over evil, fireworks – these are a few clauses associated with Diwali since ages. Indeed Diwali is about all these phrases mentioned above. But is it solely about them? Deepavali is a festival which goes beyond the ancient traditions, ancient rituals, Gods and Goddesses. It is one of those rare occasions, which unites every Hindu, Sikh, Jain and people of other religions in a bond of common love and celebration. Yes, Diwali is the festival of lights, but it is how we light our homes, our neighborhood and our nation that matters. This occasion unties every Indian. No caste, creed or color definitions crop up during this national festival of lights.
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Celebrated during the autumn season [October - November], Diwali comes exactly twenty days after Dusshera. The most accepted legend for the day of Diwali is that of Lord Rama returning back to Ayodhya with Ma Sita and Lakshmana, after winning the famous epical battle against Ravan, the king of Lanka {This story is so famous that even school books promote it.}. This day is known as Deepvali (which literally translates into the ‘the occasion/festival of lights). All the villagers and people of Ayodhya lit up their homes in order to show the path to Lord Rama and his consorts in the dark jungle. Several other stories, myths and legends also lend the cause of celebrating Diwali. During Dwapara Yuga, Lord Krishna killed a terrible demon, Narakasur who had created havoc in the world. Some scriptures suggest that it is Satyabhama, Lord Krishna’s wife who killed the demon. The festival of Diwali is also associated with this legend. It denotes the victory of good over evil. Similarly, another story states that goddess Shakti finishes her severe austerity to be a part of Mahadeva on this day. Lord Shiva accepts Shakti in the left form of his body and came to be known as Ardhanarishvarai (Half man - half woman).
There are thousands of stories related to this great occasion of Diwali. Whatever may the reason be or the story is, Diwali remains the most favorite occasion of every Indian. It is unanimously celebrated in every part of India with fervor and jest. The day is adorned with crackers, light, and colorful sweets. People prepare for this day with lot of love and compassion. The Jains celebrate the last day of Jain Tirthankaras on this day while Bengalis celebrate Kali Puja.
Amongst the aura of light and love, sweets and celebration, the entire nation celebrates the festival of Diwali. For more information and exciting stories on Diwali visit www.diwaliutsav.com and www.diwalimela.com .
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