Diwali

Diwali or Dipavali is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India. Dipavali is a Sanskrit term which means ‘rows of lamps’. Diwali is known as the festival of lights and this day is observed in a big way in India across different regions and sections of society.

Time

The lunar Hindu calendar is followed by the festival and as per this calendar; Diwali is celebrated for five consecutive days between late September or October and early October or November. The festival borrows its significance from six mythological stories and each day of the festival symbolizes these myths.

Diwali and Hinduism

Diwali is a principal festival amongst Hindus that they observe it as an auspicious occasion. The outward lighting of the lamps during the festival is a symbol for awakening and enlightening the inner self. Diwali is celebrated in order to celebrate the inner light within individuals that shine of truth and wisdom and breaks negative characteristic and the dark sides of the human spirit.

The following are the significant mythical events laced with the festival:

•    The day is celebrated as the day when Narakasura was killed and it is therefore celebrated as Narak Chaturdashi.
•    Shri Ramchandra returning home after fourteen years of stay in the Forests (Vanvas). It is on this occasion when Shri Ram was welcomed home with rows of lamps lit in the honour of his homecoming.

Both these events add to the significance of Diwali. Today Diwali is a festival for one and all. It is a festival where people celebrate by burning crackers, distributing sweets and partying while at the same time retaining its spiritual essence