WHY DIWALI IS CELEBRATED

Diwali: The Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is one of the most significant festivals celebrated in India. It is a festival of lights that marks the victory of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair. The festival is celebrated over five days and is filled with joy, laughter, and feasting.

The Legend of Diwali

The story behind Diwali is an epic battle between good and evil. The demon king, Ravana, abducted the wife of Lord Rama, Sita. Lord Rama, his brother Lakshmana, and an army of monkeys marched to Lanka, Ravana's kingdom, to rescue Sita. After a long and grueling battle, Lord Rama finally defeated Ravana and rescued Sita.

Diwali is celebrated to commemorate Lord Rama's victory over Ravana and the subsequent return of light and hope to the world.

The Rituals of Diwali

The celebration of Diwali involves a series of rituals and traditions. On the first day of Diwali, people clean their homes and draw intricate patterns known as rangolis on the floor. On the second day, they worship Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. On the third day, they celebrate with fireworks and feasts. On the fourth day, they offer prayers to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god who helped Lord Rama in his battle against Ravana. On the fifth and final day, they visit their friends and relatives and exchange gifts.

The Significance of Diwali

Diwali is a festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil and the triumph of light over darkness. It is a reminder that no matter how dark and difficult times may seem, light and hope will always prevail. Diwali is also a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate the bonds of love and unity.

Celebrating Diwali in Different Parts of the World

Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm in India and other parts of the world where there are large Indian communities. In the United Kingdom, Diwali is celebrated with a grand festival in Trafalgar Square in London. In the United States, Diwali is celebrated with parades, cultural events, and fireworks displays in major cities such as New York City, San Francisco, and Houston.

Conclusion

Diwali is a festival of lights that is celebrated with joy and enthusiasm by millions of people around the world. It is a time to celebrate the victory of good over evil, the triumph of light over darkness, and the bonds of family and love.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Diwali celebrated?

• Diwali is celebrated on the darkest night of the Hindu month of Kartika, which usually falls in October or November.

What is the significance of Diwali?

• Diwali is a festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil, the triumph of light over darkness, and the bonds of family and love.

How is Diwali celebrated?

• Diwali is celebrated with a series of rituals and traditions, including cleaning homes, drawing rangolis, worshipping Lakshmi, feasting, and watching fireworks.

Where is Diwali celebrated?

• Diwali is celebrated in India and other parts of the world where there are large Indian communities.

What are some of the popular Diwali traditions?

• Some of the popular Diwali traditions include cleaning homes, drawing rangolis, worshipping Lakshmi, feasting, watching fireworks, and exchanging gifts.