This year, Diwali, commonly known as Deepavali, falls on November 4th. Deepavali literally means “a row of lights,” with “deep” meaning “light” and “avali” meaning “row.” As a result, Deepavali is known as the “Festival of Lights.” According to the Hindu calendar, Diwali is celebrated on the 15th day of the lunar month Kartik.

Significance of Lights on Diwali

Diwali is a festival that celebrates the triumph of good over evil, hope over despair, and knowledge over ignorance. The festival of Diwali is surrounded by many legends.

After defeating the demon Ravana, Lord Rama returned to the kingdom of Ayodhya with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman, according to legend. Lord Ram arrived after fourteen years in exile, and his subjects welcomed him by lighting diyas in the streets of Ayodhya.

On Diwali, people light diyas and lamps in their homes to welcome the Goddess Lakshmi into their homes, as it is believed that those who worship her on this day will be blessed with wealth and success. The occasion is also thought to be favorable for making new investments.

Lord Ganesha, the God of Fortune, is also prayed to by devotees. Diwali is also known as the day of Goddess Lakshmi’s marriage to Lord Vishnu. On the occasion of Diwali, worshipers in West Bengal pay homage to Goddess Kali.

Why is Diwali celebrated every year?

Lights and colorful Rangoli designs are used to beautify people’s homes. People clean their homes and purchase various new items to decorate and enhance them.

Ladoos, for example, are made at home and shared with family and friends. Early in the morning, devotees take a bath with herbal oils and worship to Goddess Lakshmi.

On Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, one day before Diwali, Lord Krishna is also celebrated for slaying the monster Naraka. The fourth day of the five-day Diwali festival is dedicated to Lord Krishna, and the festivities end with Bhai-Dooj, the day when a brother-sister bond is honored.

Wishing You All a very Happy Diwali!

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