Why we celebrate Diwali ? All You Want to Know
Diwali also known as Deepawali or the festival of lights. An important festival of India that is celebrated with great pomp and splendor. It mostly falls in the months of October/ November. The date is decided as per the Indian lunar calendar. Signifying the victory of good over evil, Diwali marks the return of Lord Ram to his kingdom after living in exile for fourteen years. People lit their homes and surroundings with clay lamps or diyas and oil to welcome him. This tradition has continued since then. Also it’s on this day that the deity for wealth and prosperity Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped.
Pre-festive Arrangements/ Planning
Preparations for the festival begins days in advance. Cleaning, decorating the house, shopping and cooking being top on everyone’s agenda.
It is customary to decorate the house beautifully, as it is popularly believed that Lakshmiji visits every home and showers her blessings. In the olden days, clay lamps were lighted, nowadays along with that beautifully painted or handcrafted diyas, scented candles and artistic, streamer lights are available giving a festive aura. The doorsteps of houses are embellished with rangoli (an Indian art form made on the floor with colors).
An assortment of delicious sweets, savories and dishes marks the celebrations of Diwali.
People meet and greet each other, exchange gifts, sweets and love and togetherness abounds. Some of the must cook dishes are dahi bada (lentil dumplings in curd), kachauri (fried, stuffed bread) and barfi (an Indian milk sweet).
Dressing up in the traditional Indian attire is the norm!! Women and girls in either sari, lehenga or salwar-kurta with matching jewelry. Men in kurta, achkan or similar ethnic wear.
The highlight of the festival of lights is the bursting of fire crackers in the night, that everyone looks forward to, enjoyed by all age groups. The skies are lit up with sparkling lights . It seems like a spectacular firework show. Similarly too, our hearts are illuminated with joy and abundance.
It is best to buy eco-friendly crackers, that produce least amount of smoke and impurities. This will prevent environmental hazards !
Ushering into positivity, well-being and burning away the darkness from our lives is the essence of Deepawali !!
Diwali is a five-day festival, each day having its own religious significance. On the main day of Diwali prayers are performed at a particular auspicious time to invoke divine blessings.
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