The festival of Diwali, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains, commemorates different historical events and spiritual victories. For Hindus, Diwali signifies the triumphant return of Lord Rama and Sita to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, marking the victory of good over evil. It also celebrates Goddess Durga’s defeat of the demon Mahisha. Diwali also honors Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as Ramachandra.
Sikhs observe Diwali to mark the release of Guru Hargobind Singh from imprisonment in 1619. The foundation stone of the Golden Temple in Amritsar, a sacred site for Sikhs, was also laid on Diwali in 1577. For Jains, Diwali marks the day Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, attained Nirvana or Moksha.
Diwali is a celebration of hope, prosperity, and the triumph of light over darkness. It’s a time for new beginnings, symbolized by the start of the new financial year and the harvest season. Families light diyas (clay lamps) to illuminate their homes and welcome prosperity and good fortune. Cleanliness and purity are essential aspects of the Diwali preparations.
The five-day festival begins with cleaning homes and purchasing new kitchenware or gold. The second day focuses on decorating homes with vibrant colors and clay lamps. The third day, the main Diwali celebration, is dedicated to Lakshmi Puja, honoring the Goddess of Wealth. Families gather for prayers, feasts, and fireworks. The festivities continue on the fourth and fifth days with gift exchanges and visits with loved ones.
