Diwali, or Deepavali (दीपावली), isn’t just a festival; it’s a feeling. It’s the kind of energy you notice as soon as you step out: the streets lit up, homes glowing with diyas (दीये), and the aroma of marigolds (गेंदा) and incense (धूप) hanging in the air. Children giggle while waving sparklers, elders perform prayers quietly, and somewhere in the distance, a soft thud of crackers punctuates the evening. But beyond the glitter and excitement lies something deeper a tradition, a story, and a way of connecting with family, friends, and oneself.
Why We Celebrate Diwali
Everyone celebrates Diwali a little differently, but most stories share one common theme: light over darkness, good over evil (अच्छाई पर बुराई की विजय).
In North India, people remember Lord Rama (भगवान राम) returning to Ayodhya (अयोध्या) after defeating Ravana (रावण). The people lit countless diyas (दीये) to welcome him, marking hope, joy, and righteousness.
In South India, the story often revolves around Lord Krishna (भगवान कृष्ण) defeating the demon Narakasura (नरकासुर), symbolising courage and the triumph of justice.
Jains celebrate Diwali as the day Lord Mahavira (भगवान महावीर) attained nirvana (निर्वाण), marking liberation and inner peace.
For Sikhs, Diwali honours Guru Hargobind Ji (गुरु हरगोबिंद जी)’s release from imprisonment, reminding people of resilience and freedom.
All these narratives, though unique, convey the same timeless lesson: even the smallest light can dispel the deepest darkness.
The Five Days of Diwali
Diwali isn’t a single day, it stretches across five days, each carrying its own rituals, energy, and purpose:
Dhanteras (धनतेरस): This day is about prosperity. People buy new utensils, jewelry, or coins, believing they bring luck. Homes are cleaned and polished until they gleam. The smell of fresh paint and the soft metallic glint of newly bought utensils make the day feel alive.
Naraka Chaturdashi (नरक चतुर्दशी) / Chhoti Diwali (छोटी दिवाली): A quieter day, yet full of anticipation. People wake before sunrise for an abhyang snan (अभ्यंग स्नान) a ritual oil bath, and light small diyas around their homes. It’s a gentle reminder that darkness can be removed, step by step.
Lakshmi Puja (लक्ष्मी पूजा) / Main Diwali Day: This is the heart of the festival. Homes are adorned with rangolis (रंगोली), fairy lights, and candles. Families gather, offering prayers (आरती) to Goddess Lakshmi (महालक्ष्मी), seeking blessings for wealth, health, and happiness. The smell of ghee (घी) frying for sweets like laddoos (लड्डू), barfis (बर्फी), and kaju katli (काजू कतली) fills kitchens. Children dart around with sparklers, laughter echoing through the house.
Govardhan Puja (गोवर्धन पूजा): Celebrated mainly in villages and smaller towns, this day honours Lord Krishna (भगवान कृष्ण) lifting the Govardhan Hill (गोवर्धन पर्वत) to protect villagers. Families form small clay mounds, decorate them, and offer food, symbolising gratitude for protection and abundance.
Bhai Dooj (भाई दूज): The final day celebrates siblings. Sisters apply a tilak (तिलक) on their brothers’ foreheads, pray for their well-being, and brothers give gifts in return. The teasing, laughter, and shared memories make it a day of joy and connection.
Regional Flavours of Diwali
No two places celebrate Diwali exactly the same way, and that’s the beauty of it:
Maharashtra: People start with an early morning oil bath, decorate their homes, and indulge in karanji (करंजी) and shankarpali (शंकरपल्ली). The air smells sweet with fried snacks, and the streets hum with chatter.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (उत्तर प्रदेश / वाराणसी): Diyas float in thousands on the Ganges (गंगा), reflecting like tiny stars. The sound of bells, chants, and distant crackers creates a magical, almost timeless feeling.
Gujarat: Diwali coincides with the Gujarati New Year. Families perform Chopda Pujan (चोपड़ा पूजन), worshipping account books and hoping for prosperity in the coming year.
Tamil Nadu: Celebrations start pre-dawn with an oil bath. Sweets like adhirasam (अधिरसम) and murukku (मुरुक्कू) are made at home. Children play with crackers while elders quietly pray.
Mithila Region (मिथिला क्षेत्र): Families perform Hukka Paati (हुक्का पांती) to honour ancestors and welcome Goddess Lakshmi, blending devotion with remembrance.
Modern Twists
While traditions remain, modern Diwali has added new layers:
Eco-Friendly Celebrations: Many families prefer clay diyas (मिट्टी के दीये) and natural decorations. Firecrackers are minimal, focusing instead on lights and eco-conscious festivities.
Community Engagement: Diwali fairs, cultural events, and charity initiatives bring communities together. Artisans sell handmade crafts, and the air is filled with laughter, music, and delicious snacks.
Global Celebrations: Diwali is now celebrated worldwide from New York to Singapore with fairs, shows, and charity events. No matter the country, the spirit remains the same: joy, togetherness, and light.
Reflections and Lessons
Diwali is a festival, yes, but also a time to pause and reflect:
Purity and Renewal (पवित्रता और नवीनीकरण): Cleaning the home and lighting diyas symbolise removing negativity, both physically and mentally.
Forgiveness (क्षमा) and Harmony (मेलजोल): Old quarrels are set aside. Relationships are nurtured, and bonds strengthened.
Hope and Positivity (आशा और सकारात्मकता): Each small diya (दीया) lit is a reminder that even minor acts of kindness can brighten lives.
Simple Diwali Practices
Lighting Diyas (दीये जलाना): Each light signifies hope and positivity.
Lakshmi Puja (लक्ष्मी पूजा): Inviting wealth, prosperity, and spiritual well-being.
Fireworks (पटाखे फोड़ना): Celebrating joy, though modern practices encourage eco-friendly options.
Sharing Sweets (मिठाई बाँटना): Strengthening family and community bonds.
Decorating Homes (सजावट करना): Rangoli, lights, and flowers to create a welcoming, positive space.
Conclusion: Light Beyond the Diyas
Diwali is not just an evening of sparkling lights. It is a festival that fills the heart. Even one small diya (दीया) can illuminate darkness, just as a small act of love can change a life. It teaches us to cherish family, spread kindness, and embrace positivity.
As the old saying goes:
“अंधकार जितना भी गहरा हो, एक दीया काफी है उसे मिटाने के लिए।”
No matter how deep the darkness, one lamp is enough to end it.
This Diwali, light your diyas (दीये), enjoy sweets (मिठाई), hug your loved ones, and let the festival of light fill your heart with warmth.
