What is Diwali?

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated across the world. It is a festival of lights that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists. The festival usually lasts for five days, and each day has its own significance and rituals.

One of the main reasons why Diwali is celebrated is to honor the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. According to the Hindu epic Ramayana, the residents of Ayodhya lit oil lamps to guide Rama and his companions back home. This tradition of lighting lamps continues to this day, and it is one of the key aspects of Diwali celebrations. People decorate their homes with oil lamps, candles, and fairy lights to create a festive and welcoming atmosphere.

Another important aspect of Diwali is the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is believed that Lakshmi visits homes during Diwali and blesses them with wealth and happiness. People clean and decorate their homes, prepare special dishes, offer prayers to Lakshmi, and light lamps to welcome the goddess into their homes. Fireworks are also a common feature of Diwali celebrations, as they are believed to drive away evil spirits and bring good luck for the coming year.