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WHY IS DIWALI CELEBRATED?

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most celebrated and awaited festivals in India and among Hindu communities worldwide. It is known as the “Festival of Lights,” which signifies the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. The word “Deepavali” itself is derived from the Sanskrit words deepa (lamp) and avali (row), meaning “a row of lamps.” During this festival, homes, temples, and streets shine brightly with earthen diyas, candles, and colorful lights, symbolizing hope, prosperity, and positivity. But beyond the glimmer and celebration lies a deeper question: Why is Diwali celebrated?

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The answer is as vibrant as the festival itself. Diwali is not confined to one single story or tradition. It holds different meanings across regions, religions, and communities in India. Each tale, whether mythological, historical, or cultural, adds a new shade to the rich canvas of Diwali’s significance. Let us journey through the layers of history, mythology, and tradition to truly understand why Diwali is celebrated with such devotion and grandeur.

Perhaps the most popular story associated with Diwali comes from the epic Ramayana. After defeating the demon king Ravana in Lanka, Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana after 14 years of exile. The people of Ayodhya lit rows of oil lamps to welcome their beloved king, celebrating his return and marking the triumph of righteousness (dharma) over evil (adharma).

This story is the cornerstone of Diwali celebrations in North India, where elaborate Ramlilas (dramatic reenactments of the Ramayana) and grand processions culminate in the burning of effigies of Ravana, signifying the destruction of evil. Diwali, in this sense, is a reminder that truth and virtue always prevail, even when tested by darkness.

Diwali is also associated with the slaying of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna. Narakasura was a tyrant who spread terror across the three worlds and imprisoned thousands of women. On the day preceding Diwali, Krishna, with the help of his consort Satyabhama, defeated Narakasura, liberating his captives and restoring peace.

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This victory is celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi, a day that symbolizes the end of arrogance, cruelty, and evil. The following day, Diwali, marks the joy and freedom that emerged from Krishna’s triumph.


Another central figure of Diwali is Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. According to mythology, on the night of Diwali, Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the ocean of milk during the cosmic event of Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean). Since then, she is worshipped with devotion during Diwali, as households believe she blesses them with prosperity and happiness.

This is why Lakshmi Puja, performed on the main day of Diwali, is one of the most significant rituals of the festival. Homes are cleaned, decorated, and lit with lamps to invite the goddess, as it is believed she visits only clean and brightly lit households.


The Five Days of Diwali: Rituals and Symbolism

Diwali is not just a one-day festival; it spans five days, each with unique significance:

  1. Day 1 – Dhanteras: Dedicated to wealth and prosperity. People buy gold, silver, or utensils, believing it brings good fortune.


  2. Day 2 – Naraka Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali): Commemorates Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. Homes are decorated with rangolis and lamps.

  1. Day 3 – Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali Day): The heart of the festival, when people worship Goddess Lakshmi, light diyas, and exchange sweets.


  2. Day 4 – Govardhan Puja/Annakut: Celebrated in honor of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from torrential rains. It is also observed as Bali Padyami in South India.


  3. Day 5 – Bhai Dooj: A day celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters, similar to Raksha Bandhan.

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