Diwali is the festival of lights (deep = light and avali = a row i.e., a row of lights) that marks the five days of celebration.The festival of Diwali is celebrated on Amavasya – the 15th day of the dark fortnight of the Hindu month of Ashwin, that marks the end of Ashwin and beginning of Kartik month. Usually falls in the months of October or November.
The first day is called “Dhanteras”, on which new utensils and silver ware is brought to the house. The second day is called “Chhoti Diwali”, which normally involves preparation for the next day and the tradition of playing cards is observed in many families.The tradition of gambling on Diwali also has a legend behind it. It is believed that on this day, Goddess Parvati played dice with her husband Lord Shiva, and she decreed that whosoever gambled on Diwali night would prosper throughout the ensuing year.
The next day, or third day is the “Badi Diwali”, which involves the worshiping of mother Lakshmi.The fourth day is the Govardhan Puja( New Year celebrated by the Gujurati’s) and finally the five days end with Bhai Dooj.
For Hindus, it is associated with the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya, after his 14 years of exile and victory over the demon Ravana. On that day, he was welcomed to the kingdom to Ayodhya with rows of Deep, lightened throughout the kingdom as it was a Amavas night.
Thus, there is a tradition of lighting oil lamps that symbolize the victory of good over evil and freedom from spiritual darkness. It also celebrates the slaying of the demon king Narakasura by Lord Krishna. Both signify the victory of good over evil. In Jainism, Diwali marks the attainment of moksha by Mahavira in 527 BC. In Sikhism, Diwali commemorates the return of Guru Har Gobind Ji to Amritsar after freeing 52 Hindu kings imprisoned in Fort Gwalior by Emperor Jahangir.
Homes are decorated, sweets are distributed by everyone and thousands of lamps are lit to create a world of fantasy. Of all the festivals celebrated in India, Diwali is by far the most glamorous and important. Rangolis are drawn with different colored powders to welcome guests.Oil diyas are arranged in and around the house.People exchange sweets and gifts, wear new clothes and buy jewelry at this festive time.Bursting of firecrackers is enjoyed by all, adults and children.
