Indian Religious Holiday, Diwali: Facts!

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a significant indian religious holiday celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists. This festival of Lights holds deep cultural, historical, and religious importance. Here’s a breakdown of its observances and essential facts:

Religious and Cultural Significance

Hinduism: diwali celebrates various mythological events, including:

Lord Rama's Return: After a 14-year exile and his victory over Ravana, diwali marks Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

Krishna and Narakasura: In some regions, diwali also commemorates Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura.

Goddess Lakshmi: diwali is a time to honor Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, who is worshipped with prayers and rituals.

Jainism: Jains celebrate diwali as the day Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, attained moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).

Sikhism: Sikhs observe Bandi Chhor Divas on diwali, celebrating the release of Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Sikh guru, from imprisonment. It symbolizes freedom and the importance of standing up against injustice.

Buddhism (Newar Buddhists in Nepal): Some Buddhists, especially the Newar Buddhists of Nepal, celebrate diwali by honoring the goddess lakshmi and performing rituals for prosperity.

Diwali Observances

Diwali is a five-day festival, with each day carrying its own traditions:

Day 1: Dhanteras – This is the day to honor Dhanvantari, the god of health and healing, and Lakshmi. people clean and decorate their homes, purchase gold, and make small investments as a symbol of good fortune.

Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) – Observed primarily in South India, this day celebrates Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. people light small lamps and often enjoy a relaxing, festive bath.

Day 3: lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali) – The central day of diwali, when people perform lakshmi Puja, light oil lamps (diyas), create rangoli, and set off fireworks to celebrate the goddess of wealth and invite prosperity.

Day 4: Govardhan Puja – This day commemorates Lord Krishna’s protection of his devotees by lifting the Govardhan Hill to shelter them from a rainstorm. In North India, it’s also called Annakut, where food offerings are made to God.

Day 5: Bhai Dooj – The last day of diwali focuses on the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform rituals for their brothers’ well-being, and brothers give gifts in return.