Diwali 2019: The story of the festival, and its significance

Diwali is one of the most auspicious Indian festivals. Most of us know that Diwali is the festival of Diyas or Lights but few of us know the story behind Diwali and what is it that makes it so special. Diwali is one such festival that is widely celebrated across all states in India.

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History of Diwali

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Diwali is majorly celebrated as it embarks the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya from the 14-year-long exile. Lord Ram is believed to have defeated the demon king Ravan and returned home with his wife Seeta. Thus, Diwali is so important and was initiated back then as a symbol of joy. On seeing Lord Ram return back, the people were filled with immense joy. They showcased their joy through the lighting of diyas, rangolis, sweets, and firecrackers.

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Diwali spreads across the message of the victory of good over evil, thus lighting the lamp of light to overcome darkness. Other beliefs are also popular with Lord Ram's return after defeating Mahishasure and Naraka. Diwali holds different levels of relevance to different people. Some believe it to be the celebration of the marriage of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, with Lord Vishnu whereas others use it as a celebration of her birthday, as Lakshmi is said to have been born on the new-moon day of Kartik. In other parts of India, such as Bengal, the festival is dedicated to the worship of Mother Kali, the dark goddess of strength. In Jainism, Deepawali is considered important due to the great event of Lord Mahavira attaining the eternal bliss of nirvana.

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Diwali is celebrated for four long days. The first day is the Naraka Chaturdasi, the second day is Amavasya. The third day is auspicious, called Kartika Shuddha Padyami, and the fourth day is called as the Yama Dvitiya or Bhai Dooj. The fifth day is Bhai Dooj where sisters invite their brothers home. Diwali is celebrated with the exchange of gifts, lightning of the lamp, decorating houses, delicious food and rejoicing with firecrackers at night. 

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