To begin with, do you know what the word Diwali (Deepavali in Sanskrit) stands for? Actually, it means "a row of lights". Thus, Diwali is the festival of lights which celebrates the victory of Good over Evil, light over darkness. It is also one of the major festivals celebrated in India. Each year, millions across the world celebrate this festival during this 5-day period with joy and love.
In the year of 2023, the first day of Diwali, Dhanteras, is on 10 November.
Read on for a quick overview for the five-day long festival!
Day 1: Dhanteras
Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi Puja, marks the beginning of Tihar festival in Nepal. ‘Dhan’ means wealth and ‘teras’ means the thirteenth day of the moon cycle.
Known as the festival of wealth, Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Yama, the god of death, are especially revered today. It is also the day of purchasing various goods for the house, especially items of gold and silver. On this day and before sunset, Hindus will bath and offer sweets to the Lord of Death and pray for protection from ultimately death.
Day 2: Choti Diwali
Choti Diwali, the 14th day of the Kartik month, is also known as Naraka Chaturdasi. This is the day where one goes for a massage in order to lift the tension and fatigue from the body. People will also bath with oil and rest to enhance vigour and devotion for the festive days to follow.
Day 3: Lakshmi Puja (The main festive day!)
The main celebration of the festival takes place on this day! Hindus cleanse themselves and join their family. They worship Lakshmi, the divine goddess, while praying for wealth and prosperity and rejoice in the triumph of good over evil.
Day 4: Govardhan Puja
This is a day dedicated to the worship of Govardhan. In temples, statues of the deities are bathed in milk and dressed in shining fabrics, adorned with many ornaments such as pearls, rubies and other precious stones.
Day 5: Bhai Dooj
Tradition has it that 2 days after the day of Diwali, one dedicates this day to sisters. Brothers visit their sisters to enquire about their welfare, and sisters also pray for their brother’s safety, success and good health. It also marks the last day of the Diwali festival.
During this festival, don't forget to do the following:
Indulge yourself! Enjoy various special treats during this period such as the Soan papdi, malpua, mushroom in onion gravy, dry fruits like Pista, Raisin, Walnut, Cashew, Almond, Khurmani, Pistachio and many others which are offered to others as a sign of sympathy.
Exchange gifts! In order to emphasize the feelings of love, affection and appreciation. People give each other blessings and buy goodies for their loved ones, friends, relatives, neighbours, colleagues and business associates.
More info on www.diwalifestival.org
Diwali, the festival of lights, is just around the corner. Are you ready to celebrate the togetherness, love and sharing?