Many people don’t know what is the importance of Diwali.
Today we try to explain the importance of Diwali to you through this post.
Diwali (also known as Deepavali)Diwali is the main festival of India and Nepal. and Diwali is a festival of lights celebrated throughout India and Nepal. Diwali is the Hindu New Year and marks the end of the harvest season. It is also considered a time of celebration and joy.
According to legend, Lord Rama returned home after 14 years of exile and killed Ravana, the king of Lanka. On his way back to Ayodhya, he was given the task of bringing back the holy fire from Lanka.
After defeating Ravana, Rama and Sita returned to Ayodhya victorious. As a symbol of victory, Rama lit the first lamp at the entrance of the city. The lamp symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
The word “Diya” means “lamp” and “diva” means “light”. Thus, the literal meaning of the name “Diwali” is “day of lights”. In modern times, Diwali is celebrated throughout India, Nepal, USA, UK, and Pakistan.
The festival lasts for five days and involves many traditions and customs. People celebrate by lighting lamps made of clay. These diyas are placed in homes and temples to signify the return of good fortune.
Traditionally, people used earthen pots filled with ghee (clarified butter) to light diyas. However, today, electric bulbs are used instead. The festival begins on the full moon evening of the month of Bhadrapada (October-November). It ends on the morning of Chaitra’s new moon (March-April).
Some traditional customs associated with Diwali:
The lighting of diyas – On the night of Diwali, families gather together to light diyas. Traditionally, women prepare diyas in the early hours of the morning and men then bring them to the family altar where blessings are taken before lighting them.
Greeting each other – When people meet on the day of Diwali, they touch the feet of the elders of the house and congratulate Diwali.
Eating sweets – On Diwali, people eat sweet dishes like khichdi (rice cooked with lentils), pakora, bread balls filled with pickled potatoes, and gulab jamun (sweet milk pudding).
Gift Giving – Families exchange small gifts on Diwali. People wear new clothes. Men give gold ornaments.
Playing Games – Children play games like Khelna (ball game) and Kho-Kho (stickball game). Adults play card games and board games.
Watching Fireworks – On Diwali, people burn firecrackers. People watch a spectacular display of fireworks on the night of Diwali.
Celebrating Festivals – On Diwali, people go to temples and offer prayers. and seek blessings of happiness and prosperity from God.
