By Jogender Gagrai 
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most significant festivals in India. It is celebrated widely around the world. Known as the “Festival of Lights,” it symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. It represents light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. People celebrate Diwali with great enthusiasm and joy. It is more than just a festival. Diwali is a cultural and spiritual phenomenon that unites families, communities, and entire nations.
In this article, we’ll explore the history, significance, and rituals of Diwali. We will also examine the modern-day celebration of Diwali. Additionally, we will delve deep into its religious, social, and economic impact.
Historical Origins of Diwali
Diwali has a rich and varied history, with different regions of India offering unique stories behind its celebration. However, the most popular legends come from Hindu mythology:
Return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya
The most widely accepted origin of Diwali stems from the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. After 14 years in exile, during which Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana, he returned to his kingdom, Ayodhya, with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana. To celebrate their return, the citizens of Ayodhya lit rows of lamps, known as diyas, to welcome them back. This event marks the victory of good over evil and light over darkness.
The Defeat of Narakasura by Lord Krishna
Another significant legend associated with Diwali is the story of Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon king Narakasura, who had terrorized the heavens and earth. According to this legend, Narakasura was slain by Krishna, bringing peace and freedom to the world. This event is commemorated on Naraka Chaturdashi, which falls a day before Diwali.
The Worship of Goddess Lakshmi
Diwali is also closely associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. The festival marks the day Lakshmi emerged from the ocean during the churning of the cosmic ocean, known as the Samudra Manthan. Hindus worship Lakshmi on Deepwali night, praying for wealth, prosperity, and success in the coming year.
The Return of the Pandavas
In some parts of India, Diwali is believed to celebrate the return of the Pandavas from exile, as narrated in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. After 12 years of exile and one year in hiding, the Pandavas returned, and the people celebrated by lighting lamps.
Religious and Cultural Significance
Diwali holds deep religious significance for followers of various religions, including Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Buddhism.
- Hinduism
For Hindus, Diwali marks several important events, such as the return of Lord Rama, the defeat of Narakasura by Krishna, and the worship of Lakshmi. It is also the start of the new financial year in many parts of India. Traders and merchants open new account books and pray for prosperity in their businesses. - Jainism
Diwali marks the day Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism, attained nirvana or liberation from the cycle of life and death. Jains celebrate this day by lighting lamps to symbolize the light of spiritual knowledge that Mahavira brought into the world. - Sikhism
For Sikhs, Diwali has special significance as it marks the day when the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji, was released from imprisonment by the Mughal emperor Jahangir. Sikhs also celebrate the foundation of the Golden Temple in Amritsar on this day, making it a time of both religious and historical importance. - Buddhism
In some parts of India, Newar Buddhists in Nepal celebrate Diwali by remembering the great emperor Ashoka, who converted to Buddhism on this day after witnessing the devastation caused by his conquests.
Rituals and Traditions
It is celebrated over a period of five days, with each day having its own set of rituals and significance:
- Dhanteras (Day 1)
The first day of Diwali is Dhanteras, also known as Dhanatrayodashi. On this day, people worship Dhanvantari, the god of medicine, and Goddess Lakshmi. It is considered an auspicious day for purchasing gold, silver, and other valuable items as a sign of good fortune. - Naraka Chaturdashi (Day 2)
The second day, Naraka Chaturdashi, commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. In many parts of India, people perform early morning baths and light lamps to ward off evil spirits. The day is also known as Chhoti Diwali. - Lakshmi Puja (Day 3)
The third and most important day is Lakshmi Puja or Badi Diwali. On this day, families worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, to seek blessings for wealth, prosperity, and happiness. Homes are cleaned and decorated with rangoli (colorful patterns made on the floor) and lit with oil lamps (diyas) to welcome Lakshmi into their homes. - Govardhan Puja (Day 4)
The fourth day, known as Govardhan Puja or Annakut, is celebrated in honor of Lord Krishna’s protection of the people of Gokul from the wrath of Lord Indra. People prepare elaborate meals and offer them to Krishna in gratitude. - Bhai Dooj (Day 5)
The fifth and final day is Bhai Dooj, a day dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brothers’ well-being and success, while brothers vow to protect their sisters. Gifts and sweets are exchanged to strengthen this familial bond.
Modern-Day Celebration of Diwali
In modern times, Diwali has expanded far beyond its traditional roots. While the religious rituals remain central, Diwali has become a global festival celebrated by people of all faiths and cultures. The festival is marked by:
- Exchanging Gifts and Sweets
Exchanging gifts, sweets, and greetings is an integral part of the Diwali celebration. Families and friends share mithai (Indian sweets), chocolates, and other delicacies to express goodwill and happiness. - Lighting Firecrackers
Lighting firecrackers is one of the most popular Diwali traditions. The sound and light from the fireworks are believed to drive away evil spirits. However, due to environmental concerns, there has been a growing movement toward celebrating eco-friendly Diwali by reducing the use of firecrackers and focusing on traditional oil lamps and lights.
Note:In accordance with Indian regulations, let’s celebrate Diwali responsibly by using firecrackers only within permitted hours (8 PM to 10 PM) and choosing eco-friendly options to reduce noise and air pollution for a healthier celebration.
- Diwali Decoration
Homes are beautifully decorated with lights, diyas, rangoli, and flowers. The flickering lights symbolize the victory of light over darkness. The vibrant rangoli designs, often made at the entrance of homes, are meant to welcome guests and the divine into the house. - New Clothes
Wearing new clothes, often traditional attire, is an important aspect of Diwali. It symbolizes renewal and the start of a new chapter in life. Shopping for clothes, jewelry, and gifts surges during the festival, making it a significant time for retailers and businesses. - Corporate Diwali
In the corporate world, Diwali has taken on special importance. Many companies give bonuses, gifts, and hampers to their employees and clients. Offices are decorated, and Diwali parties are hosted to celebrate the festival in a professional setting.
The Economic Impact of Diwali
Diwali is not only a cultural and religious festival but also an economic event. The festival season sees a surge in consumer spending, particularly in the retail, gold, and jewelry sectors. The sale of electronics, clothes, vehicles, and other luxury items also skyrockets during Diwali, boosting the economy.
- Retail and E-commerce Boom
E-commerce platforms and retail outlets experience significant growth during Diwali. Massive discounts and offers attract millions of consumers. Diwali is comparable to the Christmas shopping season in the West, where businesses make a substantial portion of their annual revenue. - Gold and Jewelry
Buying gold and silver during Diwali, particularly on Dhanteras, is considered auspicious. The jewelry market experiences a spike in sales as families invest in precious metals, contributing to the festival’s economic significance. - Employment Opportunities
The festive season also creates numerous employment opportunities, particularly in the fields of retail, transportation, and event management. Temporary jobs during Diwali provide an economic boost to many households.
Environmental and Social Considerations
With growing awareness about environmental sustainability, there has been a shift toward celebrating Diwali in a more eco-friendly manner. The excessive use of firecrackers has raised concerns about air pollution, noise pollution, and harm to animals. As a result, many individuals and organizations are advocating for a Green Diwali, which encourages the use of traditional lamps, organic colors for rangoli, and minimal use of firecrackers.
Moreover, Diwali serves as an opportunity to reflect on social responsibility. Many people use this occasion to engage in charitable activities, such as distributing food, clothes, and other essentials to the underprivileged.
Conclusion
Diwali is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of life, joy, and the victory of light over darkness. With its deep-rooted religious significance and cultural traditions, it continues
to inspire millions of people across the globe. As we move toward a more environmentally conscious and inclusive world, Diwali remains a symbol of hope, prosperity, and the unifying power of light. Whether celebrated through grand rituals or quiet reflections, the essence of Diwali remains the same—a reminder that no matter how dark the night, the light of goodness and knowledge will always prevail.
