Diwali: Bringing Prosperity
Diwali or the Deepawali, which means an array of lamps, is the most auspicious Hindu festival in India . It is celebrated all over in India with equal fervor crossing the boundaries of regions and communities. Diwali is the festival of lights which brings joy, happiness and prosperity in the lives of people who celebrate it. Indians all over the world eagerly wait for this festival all the year long. Diwali symbolizes victory of good over evil and marks light over darkness or in other words heralds knowledge over ignorance.
Though now some people has made Diwali an occasion to flaunt their riches but its essence is to bring health, happiness and prosperity to home which is for everyone, rich or poor.
Legend of Diwali :
Diwali is celebrated to commemorate the occasion of return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after an exile of 14 years to the forests. He came home after killing demon Ravana which signifies victory of good over evil. On the day of Diwali, it is start of New Year according to the Hindu calendar.
Date of Diwali:
Diwali is celebrated on any date in October or November. Diwali is celebrated on the dark night of Amavasya( no moon day) in the month of Kartik according to Hindu calendar.
Diwali Celebrations:
Day of Diwali is not just one day rather it is a series of festivals related to Diwali. Diwali celebrations extend to five days in a row. It starts with Dhanteras, followed by chotti Diwali, then Lakshmi Pujan which is the main Diwali day. Next after Diwali is Goverdhan Pooja which is followed by Bhai Dooj.
People clean their houses and shops to welcome the Goddess of Prosperity, Ma Lakshmi. Markets and shops are decorated many days before Diwali and people flock to markets to buy clothes, furnishings, decorations, gifts, lamps and plenty of other things. Occasion of Diwali is the best time of sale for entrepreneurs.
Diwali is the time for family get-togethers. Friends and relatives take time out to meet each other and exchange gifts. For kids, it is the time for fun and frolic. Number of dishes and sweets are prepared for Diwali. In the evening, Lakshmi Pujan is performed which is followed by a rich dinner. Fireworks are burnt till late in the night though this practice should be avoided to reduce the noise and pollution.
