Diwali, known as the “Festival of Lights,” is one of the most vibrant and celebrated holidays across the world. If you’re wondering how to celebrate Diwali, its significance, and why it’s such a major event, this guide answers all your questions and provides a glimpse into its beautiful traditions.
When is Diwali Celebrated?
Diwali is celebrated annually and typically falls between October and November, depending on the lunar calendar. The festival lasts for five days, with the main Diwali celebration on the third day. In 2024, Diwali will be celebrated on November 1st. It’s a joyous occasion marked by prayers, feasts, and lighting lamps.
Who Celebrates Diwali?
Diwali is primarily celebrated by Hindus, but Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists also observe this festival with their own customs and beliefs. It is widely recognized and celebrated in countries with large Indian communities, such as India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, and even across the United States, the UK, and Canada.
Why is Diwali Celebrated?
The Diwali celebration has deep roots in Hindu mythology, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The most famous story is the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, where he was greeted with a grand celebration of lights and festivities. For Jains, Diwali marks Lord Mahavira’s attainment of nirvana, while Sikhs celebrate the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from imprisonment.
How to Celebrate Diwali?
Celebrating Diwali involves a wide array of customs that bring families and communities together:
Cleaning and Decorating Homes: Before the festival begins, homes are cleaned and sometimes whitewashed. Decorations such as rangoli (intricate designs made from colored powders or flowers) adorn floors, and oil lamps called diyas are lit to welcome prosperity.
Lighting Diyas: A central element of the Diwali celebration is lighting diyas, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Sky Lanterns: Many households also use Diwali lanterns to add an extra glow to their homes. Released in the night sky, lanterns represent abundance, wealth, and good fortune. They are used in Diwali to pay tribute to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
Fireworks and Sparklers: Fireworks are a highlight of Diwali festivities, symbolizing the joy of Rama’s return. Families often include sparklers for Diwali in their celebrations, especially for children and families to enjoy together.
Feasts and Sweets: Traditional Indian sweets like ladoos, barfi, and gulab jamun are shared with family, friends, and neighbors, symbolizing unity and love.
Prayers and Rituals: On the main day of Diwali, families worship Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, seeking blessings for health, happiness, and prosperity.
Where is Diwali Celebrated?
Diwali is celebrated across the world. In India, every region celebrates Diwali with its unique traditions. Major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata see grand displays of lights and fireworks, while smaller towns celebrate with family feasts and local customs. Outside of India, Diwali celebrations can be found in the UK, USA, Australia, and other countries with large Indian populations.
Whether you’re celebrating in India or abroad, the heart of the festival remains the same: joy, unity, and the triumph of light.
Nice article. You should sell a Diwali package.
Thanks! What would you like to see in a Diwali package?
Superb post..just in time for Diwali..thanks. i live in los Angeles how long will i receive the fireworks in time by 27th Oct?
Thanks, Jyoti! We’re based in Florida, so shipping to Los Angeles takes 4 days. At this point, an order placed today or tomorrow would arrive on Friday the 28th. Sparklers can’t be expedited, unfortunately.
looking beautiful designs of rangoli great work keep posting!!!
Thank you!
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