By: HIMANGSHU RANJAN BHUYAN
Diwali, known widely as the Festival of Lights, is among the most celebrated festivals in India and holds a cherished place in the hearts of millions globally. Observed primarily by Hindus but celebrated by people of various religions, including Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, Diwali encapsulates themes of light overcoming darkness, hope over despair, and good over evil. This multi-day festival, typically falling between October and November, is deeply interwoven with Indian mythology, religious beliefs, and cultural customs, making it a powerful emblem of renewal and prosperity. Its significance transcends religious boundaries, manifesting as a celebration of family, community, and shared humanity.
Diwali’s origins are steeped in the stories of Hindu deities and heroes. Among the most widely known is the tale of Lord Rama, an exiled prince who, after a long period of exile and a fierce battle, returns to his kingdom of Ayodhya victorious over the demon king Ravana. Rama’s homecoming was celebrated by the people of Ayodhya, who lit earthen lamps (diyas) to guide him home and illuminate the path of righteousness he represented. Beyond this story, Diwali is connected with various other deities and spiritual tales: in many households, the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, is worshipped on the main night of Diwali, as she is believed to bless her devotees with abundance and success. The day is also celebrated as the Hindu New Year in certain regions, symbolizing new beginnings and opportunities.
The festival spans five days, each carrying its own significance, rituals, and customs, which enrich Diwali’s layered meaning. It begins with Dhanteras, an auspicious day for purchasing gold, silver, and other valuable goods, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. The second day, Choti Diwali or Naraka Chaturdashi, commemorates the slaying of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna and signifies the victory over malevolent forces. The third and main day of Diwali is dedicated to Lakshmi Puja. As dusk falls, homes, temples, and streets are illuminated with rows of diyas and candles. These lights do not merely decorate; they embody Diwali’s essence, symbolizing the inner light that dispels ignorance, hardship, and suffering. Families gather to perform prayers, invoking blessings from Lakshmi and other deities, with the hope that the coming year brings prosperity, good health, and joy. Fireworks are traditionally lit to mark this festive spirit, creating a vibrant display that lights up the night sky and symbolizes freedom from negativity.
The days that follow are also marked by distinctive celebrations. Govardhan Puja, the fourth day, celebrates Lord Krishna’s divine intervention in protecting his devotees from destructive storms by lifting the Govardhan Hill. On this day, families and temples often prepare elaborate food offerings as a gesture of gratitude. The final day, Bhai Dooj, honors the bond between siblings, particularly brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brothers’ well-being and success, while brothers vow to protect their sisters, reaffirming family bonds and mutual support. Each day, while carrying different meanings and rituals, reinforces Diwali’s underlying themes of devotion, gratitude, and familial love.
Preparation for Diwali is an integral part of the celebration, and it often begins weeks in advance. Homes are thoroughly cleaned, redecorated, and adorned with rangolis, colorful designs made from rice flour, flowers, or colored powder that add vibrancy and welcome prosperity. Families shop for new clothes, gifts, and household items, as buying new things is considered auspicious and is thought to bring good fortune. Marketplaces become lively hubs of activity, as people buy everything from diyas and decorations to sweets and gifts. This anticipation and preparation reflect a spirit of renewal, as people refresh their lives and homes, symbolizing a fresh start and the departure of negativity.
Food and sweets hold a special place in Diwali’s celebration, as families come together to make traditional delicacies like ladoos, barfis, and gulab jamuns. These treats are shared with friends, family, and neighbors, embodying the spirit of generosity and goodwill. Exchange of gifts, especially sweets, strengthens social bonds and spreads happiness among loved ones. It’s not uncommon for generations of family members to gather in the kitchen, preparing these festive treats together, as the aromas of cardamom, ghee, and sugar fill the air, creating an environment of warmth, unity, and shared joy.
Diwali also has deep roots in the business and financial community. Traditionally, the festival marks the beginning of a new financial year for traders and business owners. On this day, they close their account books for the year, a ritual known as Muhurat trading, and begin fresh ledgers, symbolizing new beginnings in their financial pursuits. Many business owners seek blessings from Lakshmi for prosperity in their ventures. This custom of inaugurating a new fiscal cycle around Diwali is still practiced in India, especially among traders and shopkeepers. It also makes Diwali a time of economic significance, with a notable boost in consumer spending as people shop for new clothes, jewelry, electronics, and home appliances, driving the festive economy.
Diwali’s influence extends beyond religious and cultural boundaries in India, as it is celebrated by people of various faiths. For Sikhs, Diwali has special significance as Bandi Chhor Divas, commemorating the release of the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji, from imprisonment under the Mughal emperor Jahangir, along with 52 political prisoners. Sikhs celebrate this occasion by illuminating their homes and gurdwaras, including the Golden Temple, which glows with thousands of lights on Diwali night. Jains also celebrate Diwali, marking it as the day that Lord Mahavira, the last Tirthankara, attained Nirvana, symbolizing liberation and the end of suffering. Buddhists in the Newar community of Nepal observe Diwali as Tihar, celebrating animals, deities, and familial bonds across its five days. The adaptability and inclusivity of Diwali make it a festival that transcends individual beliefs, creating a shared experience of joy, gratitude, and spiritual reflection.
Diwali’s appeal is not limited to India; it has become a global celebration, especially within Indian communities in countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Many cities outside of India host public Diwali celebrations featuring fireworks, traditional dances, music, and cultural programs, often drawing crowds from various backgrounds. Diwali has become a means for Indian communities to connect with their roots and share their culture with people of other backgrounds, fostering mutual respect, appreciation, and understanding in a multicultural setting.
However, the modern-day celebration of Diwali faces some significant challenges, particularly around environmental concerns. The use of firecrackers has long been a cherished tradition, symbolizing joy and driving away evil spirits. However, the resulting noise and air pollution, especially in densely populated urban areas, have led to health and environmental concerns, especially in cities like Delhi, where pollution levels spike during the festival. In response, many people are choosing eco-friendly alternatives, such as lighting only traditional oil lamps, using biodegradable decorations, or celebrating a quieter Diwali. This shift reflects a broader awareness of the need to celebrate responsibly, with an eye toward protecting the environment for future generations. The movement toward eco-friendly celebrations illustrates Diwali’s adaptability, as traditions evolve to align with contemporary values of sustainability while preserving the festival’s essence.
Diwali also brings to the forefront the importance of charity and compassion. Many people choose to use the festival as an opportunity to give back, extending their blessings to those in need. Acts of kindness during Diwali, such as donating food, clothes, or money to the less fortunate, are seen as an essential expression of the festival’s spirit. Numerous charitable organizations and NGOs hold drives during this period to provide aid to impoverished communities, bringing a glimmer of hope and happiness into the lives of those who may not otherwise experience the festive season. For many, these gestures of goodwill are an integral part of Diwali, as they believe true prosperity lies in the ability to uplift others, further reinforcing the values of unity, generosity, and compassion.
At its core, Diwali is as much a celebration of self-reflection as it is of outward celebration. The lighting of diyas is symbolic of an inner journey, urging individuals to cast aside darkness in their hearts, embrace forgiveness, and aspire to lead lives filled with light, positivity, and purpose. Diwali encourages everyone to introspect, to consider their actions and intentions, and to work toward becoming better individuals. This journey of self-improvement, though deeply personal, is universal, resonating across cultures and beliefs.
Today, Diwali stands as a powerful reminder of shared human values—hope, resilience, compassion, and the pursuit of happiness. It bridges divides of faith and nationality, bringing people together in celebration of life’s enduring light. Every diya lit symbolizes a small but significant act of defiance against despair, every firework that bursts illuminates a shared joy, and every gift or sweet shared embodies goodwill and love. Diwali’s timeless message is one of optimism and connection, encouraging everyone to look toward the future with renewed hope and to remember that in unity and kindness lies our greatest strength.
In a world often shadowed by division and hardship, Diwali’s enduring light remains a source of inspiration, reminding us that no matter how dark the night, light will always prevail.
Diwali’s origins are steeped in the stories of Hindu deities and heroes. Among the most widely known is the tale of Lord Rama, an exiled prince who, after a long period of exile and a fierce battle, returns to his kingdom of Ayodhya victorious over the demon king Ravana. Rama’s homecoming was celebrated by the people of Ayodhya, who lit earthen lamps (diyas) to guide him home and illuminate the path of righteousness he represented. Beyond this story, Diwali is connected with various other deities and spiritual tales: in many households, the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, is worshipped on the main night of Diwali, as she is believed to bless her devotees with abundance and success. The day is also celebrated as the Hindu New Year in certain regions, symbolizing new beginnings and opportunities.
The festival spans five days, each carrying its own significance, rituals, and customs, which enrich Diwali’s layered meaning. It begins with Dhanteras, an auspicious day for purchasing gold, silver, and other valuable goods, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. The second day, Choti Diwali or Naraka Chaturdashi, commemorates the slaying of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna and signifies the victory over malevolent forces. The third and main day of Diwali is dedicated to Lakshmi Puja. As dusk falls, homes, temples, and streets are illuminated with rows of diyas and candles. These lights do not merely decorate; they embody Diwali’s essence, symbolizing the inner light that dispels ignorance, hardship, and suffering. Families gather to perform prayers, invoking blessings from Lakshmi and other deities, with the hope that the coming year brings prosperity, good health, and joy. Fireworks are traditionally lit to mark this festive spirit, creating a vibrant display that lights up the night sky and symbolizes freedom from negativity.
The days that follow are also marked by distinctive celebrations. Govardhan Puja, the fourth day, celebrates Lord Krishna’s divine intervention in protecting his devotees from destructive storms by lifting the Govardhan Hill. On this day, families and temples often prepare elaborate food offerings as a gesture of gratitude. The final day, Bhai Dooj, honors the bond between siblings, particularly brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brothers’ well-being and success, while brothers vow to protect their sisters, reaffirming family bonds and mutual support. Each day, while carrying different meanings and rituals, reinforces Diwali’s underlying themes of devotion, gratitude, and familial love.
Preparation for Diwali is an integral part of the celebration, and it often begins weeks in advance. Homes are thoroughly cleaned, redecorated, and adorned with rangolis, colorful designs made from rice flour, flowers, or colored powder that add vibrancy and welcome prosperity. Families shop for new clothes, gifts, and household items, as buying new things is considered auspicious and is thought to bring good fortune. Marketplaces become lively hubs of activity, as people buy everything from diyas and decorations to sweets and gifts. This anticipation and preparation reflect a spirit of renewal, as people refresh their lives and homes, symbolizing a fresh start and the departure of negativity.
Food and sweets hold a special place in Diwali’s celebration, as families come together to make traditional delicacies like ladoos, barfis, and gulab jamuns. These treats are shared with friends, family, and neighbors, embodying the spirit of generosity and goodwill. Exchange of gifts, especially sweets, strengthens social bonds and spreads happiness among loved ones. It’s not uncommon for generations of family members to gather in the kitchen, preparing these festive treats together, as the aromas of cardamom, ghee, and sugar fill the air, creating an environment of warmth, unity, and shared joy.
Diwali also has deep roots in the business and financial community. Traditionally, the festival marks the beginning of a new financial year for traders and business owners. On this day, they close their account books for the year, a ritual known as Muhurat trading, and begin fresh ledgers, symbolizing new beginnings in their financial pursuits. Many business owners seek blessings from Lakshmi for prosperity in their ventures. This custom of inaugurating a new fiscal cycle around Diwali is still practiced in India, especially among traders and shopkeepers. It also makes Diwali a time of economic significance, with a notable boost in consumer spending as people shop for new clothes, jewelry, electronics, and home appliances, driving the festive economy.
Diwali’s influence extends beyond religious and cultural boundaries in India, as it is celebrated by people of various faiths. For Sikhs, Diwali has special significance as Bandi Chhor Divas, commemorating the release of the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji, from imprisonment under the Mughal emperor Jahangir, along with 52 political prisoners. Sikhs celebrate this occasion by illuminating their homes and gurdwaras, including the Golden Temple, which glows with thousands of lights on Diwali night. Jains also celebrate Diwali, marking it as the day that Lord Mahavira, the last Tirthankara, attained Nirvana, symbolizing liberation and the end of suffering. Buddhists in the Newar community of Nepal observe Diwali as Tihar, celebrating animals, deities, and familial bonds across its five days. The adaptability and inclusivity of Diwali make it a festival that transcends individual beliefs, creating a shared experience of joy, gratitude, and spiritual reflection.
Diwali’s appeal is not limited to India; it has become a global celebration, especially within Indian communities in countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Many cities outside of India host public Diwali celebrations featuring fireworks, traditional dances, music, and cultural programs, often drawing crowds from various backgrounds. Diwali has become a means for Indian communities to connect with their roots and share their culture with people of other backgrounds, fostering mutual respect, appreciation, and understanding in a multicultural setting.
However, the modern-day celebration of Diwali faces some significant challenges, particularly around environmental concerns. The use of firecrackers has long been a cherished tradition, symbolizing joy and driving away evil spirits. However, the resulting noise and air pollution, especially in densely populated urban areas, have led to health and environmental concerns, especially in cities like Delhi, where pollution levels spike during the festival. In response, many people are choosing eco-friendly alternatives, such as lighting only traditional oil lamps, using biodegradable decorations, or celebrating a quieter Diwali. This shift reflects a broader awareness of the need to celebrate responsibly, with an eye toward protecting the environment for future generations. The movement toward eco-friendly celebrations illustrates Diwali’s adaptability, as traditions evolve to align with contemporary values of sustainability while preserving the festival’s essence.
Diwali also brings to the forefront the importance of charity and compassion. Many people choose to use the festival as an opportunity to give back, extending their blessings to those in need. Acts of kindness during Diwali, such as donating food, clothes, or money to the less fortunate, are seen as an essential expression of the festival’s spirit. Numerous charitable organizations and NGOs hold drives during this period to provide aid to impoverished communities, bringing a glimmer of hope and happiness into the lives of those who may not otherwise experience the festive season. For many, these gestures of goodwill are an integral part of Diwali, as they believe true prosperity lies in the ability to uplift others, further reinforcing the values of unity, generosity, and compassion.
At its core, Diwali is as much a celebration of self-reflection as it is of outward celebration. The lighting of diyas is symbolic of an inner journey, urging individuals to cast aside darkness in their hearts, embrace forgiveness, and aspire to lead lives filled with light, positivity, and purpose. Diwali encourages everyone to introspect, to consider their actions and intentions, and to work toward becoming better individuals. This journey of self-improvement, though deeply personal, is universal, resonating across cultures and beliefs.
Today, Diwali stands as a powerful reminder of shared human values—hope, resilience, compassion, and the pursuit of happiness. It bridges divides of faith and nationality, bringing people together in celebration of life’s enduring light. Every diya lit symbolizes a small but significant act of defiance against despair, every firework that bursts illuminates a shared joy, and every gift or sweet shared embodies goodwill and love. Diwali’s timeless message is one of optimism and connection, encouraging everyone to look toward the future with renewed hope and to remember that in unity and kindness lies our greatest strength.
In a world often shadowed by division and hardship, Diwali’s enduring light remains a source of inspiration, reminding us that no matter how dark the night, light will always prevail.
(The Writer is Editor in Chief of the Assamese E-Megazine SAMPROTIK)
