Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important festivals in India and Nepal. Celebrated on the new moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik, this festival symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. This year, Diwali will be celebrated on October 31, 2024.
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Origin and Meaning of Diwali
Diwali has its roots in various legends and myths from Hindu mythology. The most popular is the story of Lord Ram, who returned to his kingdom in Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and after defeating the demon Ravana. The inhabitants of Ayodhya lit the city with oil lamps to celebrate his return and the victory of good over evil.
Another prominent legend is that of the goddess Lakshmi, who emerged from the ocean of milk during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) and chose Vishnu as her husband. Lakshmi, being the goddess of wealth and prosperity, is especially worshiped during Diwali to invoke abundance and good fortune.
Religious Significance
Diwali is significant not only for Hindus but also for Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists, each with their own interpretations and rituals. For Jains, Diwali marks the nirvana or enlightenment of Lord Mahavira. Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, which commemorates the release of the sixth guru, Guru Hargobind, from Mughal imprisonment. For the Newar Buddhists in Nepal, Diwali is an occasion to celebrate the conversion of Emperor Ashoka to Buddhism.
Symbolism of Light
The name “Diwali” comes from the Sanskrit “Deepavali,” which means “row of lit lamps.” Light is a central symbol of the festival, representing the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. During Diwali, homes, temples, and streets are illuminated with oil lamps and electric lights, creating a festive and auspicious atmosphere.
Cultural Significance
Diwali is a time for family gatherings, renewing friendships, and reconciliation. It is an occasion to wear new clothes, exchange gifts, and share sweets. The cleaning and decoration of homes symbolize welcoming prosperity and removing negativity.
Dates and Duration of Celebrations
Diwali is celebrated over five days, each with its own significance and rituals. The festival is based on the Hindu lunar calendar, so the exact date varies each year. The main day of Diwali falls on the darkest night of the month of Kartik.
Each of the days of the festival has its own meaning and rituals:
- Dhanteras: Marks the beginning of Diwali, where valuable items are purchased, and Dhanvantari, the god of health, is worshipped.
- Naraka Chaturdashi: Celebrates the victory of Krishna over the demon Narakasura.
- Lakshmi Puja: The main day of Diwali, dedicated to the worship of Lakshmi and the performance of ceremonies in homes.
- Govardhan Puja: Commemorates the victory of Krishna over Indra.
- Bhai Dooj: Celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, similar to Raksha Bandhan.
Preparations and Decorations for Diwali
Before Diwali, families clean and decorate their homes with clay lamps known as diyas, as well as with rangoli, intricate patterns drawn on the ground with colored powders. Cleaning and decorating symbolize preparing the home for the arrival of the goddess Lakshmi, who brings prosperity.
Rituals and Celebrations
On the day of Diwali, families perform ceremonies and rituals to worship Lakshmi and Ganesha. The doors of homes are left open, and the lights remain on all night to invite the goddess Lakshmi to enter and bless the home. In addition, offerings of sweets and fruits are made.
Typical Foods During Diwali
During Diwali, a variety of traditional dishes and sweets are prepared and shared, which we explain here.
Traditional Sweets
Sweets play a fundamental role in the celebrations. Among the most popular are:
- Ladoo: Balls made from chickpea flour, sugar, and ghee.
- Barfi: Sweet made from condensed milk and sugar, often decorated with edible silver leaves.
- Jalebi: Spirals of fried dough soaked in sugar syrup, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Savory Dishes
In addition to sweets, various savory dishes are prepared that complement the festivities:
- Samosas: Pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat.
- Pakoras: Vegetables fried in chickpea flour batter.
- Dhokla: Savory cakes made from rice and lentil flour, usually served with chutney.
Drinks
To accompany the feasts, several traditional drinks are served:
- Masala Chai: Tea with milk and a blend of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger.
- Thandai: A cold drink made with milk, almonds, fennel seeds, cardamom, and rose petals.
