Diwali: The Festival of Lights

Diwali or Deepawali gets its name from the row (avali) of clay lamps (deepa) that symbolizes light over darkness. This festival is celebrated in India with much fervour and delight all throughout. It marks the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. Also known as the Festival of Lights, it celebrates Lord Ram’s victory over Ravana and his triumphant return home. The streets leading to his home were lit with lamps, and ever since, Diwali has been celebrated. Diwali also marks the Hindu New Year and is considered to be an auspicious time to start something new. Deities are worshipped on this day to invoke their blessings of prosperity and good fortune on the household.

The preparations for the celebrations begin weeks in advance, when people clean their homes to prepare for the Diwali rituals. The festival is said to bring wealth, prosperity and happiness. Homes are beautifully decorated with flowers, rangolis and lights.

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