Diwali - the Festival of Lights

Diwali is a five day Hindu festival which occurs on the fifteenth day of Kartika. During this time, homes are thoroughly cleaned and windows are opened to welcome Laksmi, goddess of wealth. Candles and lamps are lit as a greeting to Laksmi. Gifts are exchanged and festive meals are prepared during Diwali. Diwali, being the festival of lights, thousands of lamps are lit in and outside every home on the day. Lamp or “Deep” is the symbol of knowledge. The act of lighting the lamp of knowledge within us signifies an understanding and reflection upon the significant purpose of each of the five days of festivities and to bring those thoughts in to our day to day lives.

According to Ramayana, Diwali commemorates the return of Ram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the eldest son of King Dasharath of Ayodhya, from his 14-year exile with Sita and Lakshman after killing the Ravan, a demon king. The people of Ayodhya illuminated the kingdom with earthen diyas and fireworks to celebration of the return of their king.

There are other myths as well, that explain the existence of the festival, but for me the festival means Diwali pooja, gujiyas, flowers, rangolis (though I can't make one!), malpuas, lights strung across homes, diyas (loads of them), new clothes ;-) and kheer...it's my favourite festival, despite the pollution created by the fireworks which are a major nuisance...

WISHING YOU ALL A VERY HAPPY DIWALI & A POSPEROUS NEW YEAR!!!

Have a colourful, exciting Diwali - but let's not forget our duty to the environment!