Diwali - Festival of light

28 October 2024 to 3 November 2024

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India. It is a festival of lights, symbolising the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists, each with its own cultural significance, but the themes of positivity, prosperity, and new beginnings are universal.

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Hindu Significance

• Victory of Lord Rama: In Hindu tradition, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom of Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. To celebrate his return, the people of Ayodhya lit rows of lamps, which is why lighting oil lamps or diyas is a central part of Diwali.
• Goddess Lakshmi: Diwali is also associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People pray for wealth, success, and good fortune for the coming year.
• Krishna and Narakasura: In some parts of India, Diwali commemorates Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura, symbolising the triumph of good over evil.

Sikh Significance

• For Sikhs, Diwali marks the release of the sixth guru, Guru Hargobind Ji, from imprisonment in 1619. The festival celebrates freedom and the triumph of justice.

Jain Significance

• For Jains, Diwali celebrates the moment when Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, attained nirvana or liberation. It represents a time for spiritual uplifting and renewal.

Buddhist Significance

• Buddhists, particularly in the Newar Buddhist communities of Nepal, celebrate Diwali as a time of honouring their deities and worshipping ancestors.

Traditions and Celebrations:

• Lighting Lamps (Diyas): Homes, temples, and public spaces are illuminated with rows of small oil lamps (diyas) to symbolise the triumph of light over darkness.
• Fireworks: Fireworks are set off to celebrate the festival and symbolise the victory of good over evil.
• Rangoli: Beautiful patterns called Rangoli are created at the entrance of homes with coloured powders, flowers, and rice to welcome prosperity and good luck.
• Sweets and Feasts: Families prepare and share a variety of sweets and savoury dishes. Exchanging sweets with neighbours and friends is a common practice.
• New Clothes and Cleaning Homes: People clean and decorate their homes to welcome Goddess Lakshmi and wear new clothes, signifying renewal and purity.
• Lakshmi Puja: Many families perform a puja (prayer) to honour Goddess Lakshmi and seek her blessings for prosperity and well-being.

Diwali usually falls between October and November, depending on the lunar calendar. The festival lasts for five days, with the main celebration occurring on the third day. This year in Australia it runs from 28 October 2024 to 3 November 2024.

The five days of Diwali are:

1. Dhanteras: The first day, focused on health and wealth.
2. Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali): Celebrating Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura.
3. Lakshmi Puja: The main day of Diwali, when homes are illuminated, and Lakshmi is worshipped.
4. Govardhan Puja: Celebrating Lord Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan.
5. Bhai Dooj: Honouring the bond between brothers and sisters.

Diwali is a time for joy, togetherness, and spiritual reflection, making it one of the most beloved festivals in India and among Indian communities worldwide.

Source: Google/desktop research.