Introduction

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a major holiday celebrated in India and by Indians around the world. It is a five-day long festival that symbolizes the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. The festival falls on the Hindu calendar month of Kartik, which usually falls between mid-October and mid-November.

Background

Diwali has its origins in the Hindu religion and  [[https://celebrationsofthenations.wordpress.com/2024/10/01/world-octopus-day-october-8th-2024/|World Octopus Day October 8th]] is believed to have been celebrated since the time of the Mahabharata, a Hindu epic. Over the years, it has evolved into a secular festival celebrated by people of all religions and communities. Today, it is celebrated not just in India but also in countries like USA, Canada, Singapore, and Australia, among others.

Celebration

The festival of Diwali begins with Dhanteras on the first day, followed by the second day of Choti Diwali, the third day of Nark Chaturdashi, and finally, Bali Puja and Gala Night on the fourth day. Each day has its own rituals and traditions.

Dhanteras marks the worship of wealth and prosperity and is celebrated by buying new utensils, coins, and jewelry. Choti Diwali celebrates the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and the lighting of diyas (lamps). Nark Chaturdashi is a day of fasting and cleaning of homes. Bali Puja is a day of offering food and lighting of the biggest and the most beautiful diyas. Gala Night is the last day of the festival and is celebrated by lighting of crackers and fireworks.

Importance of Lighting Diyas

The act of lighting diyas holds great significance in the festival of Diwali. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. The use of diyas also represents the Hindu belief of "Aarti," which means an offering of light to the gods. The lights and fireworks during Diwali create a festive atmosphere and welcome the Hindu deity Lord Ram back home after a 14-year exile.

Conclusion

Diwali is a festival that celebrates the triumph of good over evil and is marked by the lighting of diyas, the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, and cleaning and renovating homes. While the festival has its origins in the Hindu religion, it has evolved over time to become a festival celebrated by people of all religions and communities. The festival of Diwali not only brings families and friends together but also signifies the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

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