Everything you need to know about Diwali, the Festival of Lights
Celebrate the joyous festival of Diwali, also known as Deepavali, observed by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists worldwide Experience the enchantment as homes are adorned, families unite, and delectable sweets are savored in this auspicious celebration
Diwali, known as Deepavali, is a significant festival celebrated by over a billion Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists worldwide. It is considered one of the grandest festivals in India and is also widely observed in Nepal, Malaysia, Fiji, and other nations with substantial South Asian communities. During this festival, homes, businesses, and public areas are adorned with clay lamps called diyas, and vibrant fireworks illuminate the skies. Families come together to enjoy sweet delicacies, exchange gifts, and bask in the festive spirit.
Despite its deep religious significance, Diwali today is also a cultural festival observed by people regardless of faith.
Heres what to know about the holiday.
What is Diwali?
People in Mumbai look at lanterns at roadside stalls ahead of Diwali on November 5, 2023.
Rafiq Maqbool/AP
Diwali originates from the Sanskrit term 'deepavali,' which signifies "line of luminous lights." This festival symbolizes the victory of illumination over obscurity and righteousness over malevolence. While Diwali customs differ depending on geographical location and religious beliefs, the narratives and historical tales associated with this celebration commonly revolve around principles of equality and freedom.
When is Diwali?
The festival of Diwali, celebrated annually in autumn, typically takes place in either October or November. It spans over a period of five days, with the central festivities transpiring on the third day. In the current year, Diwali is set to be observed on November 12.
The five days of Diwali are as follows:
- Dhanteras: On the first day of Diwali, people usually buy gold and silver jewelry, utensils, and new household items for good fortune. Many also clean their homes to invite the blessings of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Additionally, some people pay tribute to Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, and Yamaraj, the god of death, on this day.
On Dhanteras, the first day of Diwali, some people buy gold and silver jewelry for good luck and prosperity.
Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, commemorates Lord Krishna's victory over the demon king Narakasura. On this day, people wake up early to cleanse themselves and wash their hair. They diligently tidy up their homes, adorn them with beautiful rangolis and diyas, and indulge in the preparation of delightful sweets.
- Diwali, also known as Lakshmi Puja, is typically associated with the third day of the festival. During this time, families come together to exchange gifts, enjoy delicious meals, and indulge in sweets. It is common for many Hindus to worship the goddess Lakshmi on this day.
- Padwa, also called Govardhan Puja, is observed on the fourth day of Diwali and holds significance in celebrating the bond between husbands and wives. Husbands typically purchase gifts for their spouses during this occasion. In some customs, it commemorates the day when Lord Krishna saved the villagers of Vrindavan from rainfall caused by Lord Indra's anger by lifting Govardhan Hill. As a remembrance, some devotees offer a large amount of food to Krishna, while others create clay and cow dung figures to recreate the event.
What is the meaning of Diwali?
Bhai Dooj, which is the concluding day of the Diwali festival, commemorates the affection shared among siblings in reverence of the bond between Lord Yama and his sister Yami (or Yamuna). Sisters often apply a vermilion mark, known as a tilak, on their brothers' foreheads as a symbol of blessings, while brothers reciprocate by presenting gifts to their sisters.
Diwali is widely celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, but, similar to Christmas, the holiday has transcended religious boundaries and is now embraced by many individuals from diverse backgrounds.
The significance of Diwali differs among communities and regions.
One of the legends surrounding the festival of Diwali originates from the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. It tells the story of Prince Rama, an incarnation of the god Vishnu, and his wife Sita, who is an incarnation of the goddess Lakshmi. During their exile, Sita is abducted by the demon king Ravana. However, Rama ultimately emerges victorious over Ravana and rescues his beloved wife. For many Hindus, Diwali symbolizes the joyous homecoming of Rama and Sita to their kingdom after enduring a 14-year exile.
Women light diyas, or earthen lamps, during Diwali celebrations in Vrindavan, India, on October 16, 2017.
Xavier Galiana/AFP/Getty Images
In southern India, Hindus celebrate Lord Krishna's victory over Narakasura, resulting in the liberation of 16,000 girls held captive by the demon. Meanwhile, in western India, Diwali signifies the day when Lord Vishnu banishes the demon king Bali to govern the netherworld.
Sikhs observe this occasion as "Bandi Chhor Divas" (The Day of Liberation). It marks the liberation of Guru Hargobind, their sixth guru, and 52 Hindu kings from unjust imprisonment. Initially, the Mughal Emperor Jahangir agreed to release only Guru Hargobind, but the guru insisted on the release of the royals as well. In response, Jahangir offered freedom to those who could hold onto the guru's cloak. To ensure each ruler's freedom, Guru Hargobind attached 52 tassels to his cloak. This allowed each ruler to walk to freedom.
How is Diwali celebrated?
Diwali holds deep significance for Jains, as it marks the moment when Lord Mahavira, their esteemed spiritual guide, transcended the physical realm and attained supreme enlightenment. Additionally, certain Buddhists recognize Diwali as the day when Emperor Ashoka wholeheartedly embraced the teachings of Buddhism.
People visit a flower market on the eve of Diwali in Bangalore, India, on October 23, 2022.
In addition to the customary practices of adorning homes, igniting firecrackers, and indulging in delectable meals, individuals commemorate Diwali in various other ways.
In certain regions of India, individuals engage in gambling card games like teen patti, blackjack, and poker. The act of gambling during this festive season is deemed favorable, originating from a mythological tale where the deities Shiva and Parvati engage in a game of dice.
Additionally, Diwali signifies the commencement of the new Hindu fiscal year, prompting numerous businesses, traders, and shopkeepers to inaugurate new account books amidst the celebrations.
Naomi Canton contributed to this piece.
