Among all the festivals in India, Diwali or Deepavali is the most prominent festival celebrated in most parts of India.
Like Roy T Bennett said, “Learn to light a candle in the darkest moments of someone’s life. Be the light that helps her see. It is what gives life its deepest significance.” This quote can easily resemble Diwali.
We have been taught that Diwali is the festival of lights from childhood. But have you ever thought why it is said to be the festival of lights? Let's dig into more deeper insights. You might be aware of the festival. But here is a chance for you to know more about it and celebrate it with great value. This blog will help you know more about the Significance of Diwali 2023.
Diwali: The Story Behind Festival of Lights
Holding in-depth cultural and spiritual importance, Deepavali is a vibrant festival which evokes great mythological stories. This festival is celebrated to commemorate the triumph of light over darkness. The term Diwali depicts the row of lights.
Signifying the removal of the darkness of evil and welcoming lights of good and spirituality, Diwali is said to be a remarkable moment when lord Rama, the incarnation of lord Vishnu returns to his kingdom- Ayodhya.
As per the Hindu epic Ramayana, lord Rama was the eldest son of the king Dasharatha. He was known for his loyalty, wisdom, bravery, calmness and righteousness. Based on the promise made by the king to one of his wives, lord Rama was exiled from Ayodhya for fourteen years. His brother Laxman, who was loyal to him accompanied him and moved out from the kingdom.
Meanwhile, Sita, wife of lord Rama got abducted by the demon king Ravana. So, lord Rama, brother Laxman decides to save Sita from the hands of the demon king of Lanka with the help of lord hanuman, the devotee of lord Rama. With an army of monkeys, lord Rama fought the battle against Ravana. He won the battle and rescued his wife.
After defeating Ravana and saving Sita, lord Rama returned to his kingdom Ayodhya, with his wife Sita and brother Laxman. He was welcomed by the people of Ayodhya joyously. So, Diwali celebrates lord Rama’s return to the kingdom. To celebrate this moment, the people light up the whole city with candles. The tradition of lighting the lamps has continued today.
What is the Role of Goddess Lakshmi in Diwali?
Goddess Lakshmi is said to be the crucial figure of Diwali. People place the goddess Lakshmi in their houses to praise and worship for her blessings for family and financial success. Devotees believe that on the auspicious day of Diwali, the goddess Lakshmi visits every light-up and clean house to offer blessing and prosperity.
What are the Five days of Diwali?
Diwali in 2023 will come on 12th November It is a festival of five days differentiated with various significances. The five days of Diwali are Dhanteras, Chaturdashi, Diwali, Lakshmi Puja, Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj. Let’s learn more about the importance of the five days of Diwali.
Dhanteras
It is the first day of the Diwali week and is considered the 13th lunar day of the Krishna Paksha, which is the dark quarter of the Karthik month. This day is celebrated to commemorate the arrival of Lord Dhanwantari from the sea with Ayurveda to gift humankind. People chose this day to buy gold, silver, ornaments and even new clothing. And, during sunset, the devotees take a bath and offer prayers for Yama raj near the Tulsi plant with a lighted lamp.
Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali)
Being the second day of Diwali, it commemorates the victory of lord Krishna in killing the demon Narakasura. People choose this day to undergo ritual oil baths. It is believed that taking a ritual bath will wash out our sins and embrace purity.
Lakshmi Puja
It is the third day of Diwali and is said to be one of the significant days on which devotees worship the goddess Lakshmi. Even though it’s a common practice, people put special efforts into cleaning their houses to keep them clean and decorated with lighting lamps for the visit of goddess Lakshmi.
Govardhan Puja
The fourth day of Diwali, which is called Govardhan Puja is conducted to remind everyone of the act of lord Krishna to protect Vrindavan from torrential rain by lifting the Govardhan hill. On this auspicious day, devotees prepare various types of dishes and sweets to offer to deities. The day is celebrated for the gratitude towards harvest.
Bhai Dooj
It is the last day of Diwali and might be the favourite day of many siblings. The day is celebrated to evoke the bond between siblings. Sisters offer prayers for the health and well-being of their brothers and put Tilak on their foreheads. However, brothers express their affection and care by sharing gifts with them.
Happy Diwali in 2023
The festivals and their preparations start with cleaning and decorating the houses. People believe that a cleaned house can eliminate negativity and open a way for make goddess Lakshmi to enter our house. From the past to the present, the one thing that always remained unchanged was the Diwali lights. People light up lamps and decorate the house and building with lights. People always find crackers as a way to make the festival more engaging and joyous. However, due to strong environmental concerns, people are reducing the use of fireworks for environmental concerns.
Diwali is one of the prime festivals which bring joy not only to Hindus but most of the people. It evokes unity by bringing people together and making celebrations more happier. Along with visiting temples and seeking blessings from God, people exchange gifts and sweets with their closed ones.
