Wishing all our readers, friends and family around the world, ‘Shubh Deepawali’ or an ‘Auspicious Deepawali’.
Deepawali or Diwali meaning ‘row of lighted lamps’ is the festival of lights celebrated by every Indian. It marks the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. Oil lamps light up every household to remember the return of Rama and Sita after 14 years of exile. To their hometown in Ayodhya, where 1.2 million lamps would be lit up this year to celebrate the occasion.
Deepawali is celebration time and the entire country is soaked up in the festive spirit. Hence whether it is lighting colorful earthen lamps, candles, lanterns, bulbs or decorating the home with Rangolis ( Indian floor Art), the innovative enthusiasm touches many fingers and every heart.
‘Shubh Deepawali’ – The Festival
Diwali is celebrated over 5 consecutive days as per Hindu rituals. And hence if you are wondering what goes on during this period, here is all the fun.
Dhanteras
On Dhanteras people worship Lord Kubera and Goddess Lakshmi in their home. Moreover it is considered very auspicious to buy gold, silver, utensils and clothes which is thought to bestow good fortune on the family.
Naraka Chaturdasi
Also known as ‘Choti Diwali’, it is believed that Lord Krishna fought the demon Narakasura and killed him on this day. Therefore the spirit of victory of good over evil sets off the initial Diwali celebrations.
Diwali
On Diwali day people welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, who is believed to bless people with luck and prosperity. Lord Ganesha is also worshiped on this day. Also Lord Rama & Sita’s homecoming is celebrated through lighting lamps and bursting of green crackers. Delicious sweets are made or purchased and gifts are exchanged between friends and family amidst joy, laughter and prayers.
Govardhan Puja
People worship Lord Krishna on this day. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Krishna saved the residents of Mathura from Lord Indra by lifting a mountain named ‘Govardhan’. Therefore the deity is served with 56 varieties of vegetarian food and drinks as a gesture of gratitude.
Bhai Dooj
On ‘Bhai Dooj’ sisters apply a Tilak (a colored spot on forehead) and pray for their brother’s long & happy life. Moreover gifts and sweets are exchanged on the occasion followed by a sumptuous meal specially prepared for the brother. This ceremony ends the five day Deepawali festival.
‘Shubh Deepawali’ – Some more fun
Kali Puja
In Eastern part of India in Bengal, the Sharodotsab or the autumn festival ends with Kali Puja. And on most occasions it falls on the same day or a day before Deepawali. Therefore for us Bengalis or Bongs, it’s a double celebration.
Kali is considered as the first incarnation of Goddess Durga and is her more fierce and aggressive form. And it is believed that Kali embodies Shakti – feminine energy, creativity and fertility.
‘Shubh Deepawali’ – Let’s Celebrate with Caution
Wear A Mask & Frequently Use Sanitizers
Maintain Safe Social Distance
Get Vaccinated if you haven’t yet
Avoid Sound & Air Pollution
‘Shubh Deepawali’
May the spirit of Deepawali bring lots of happiness and good health for you & your family. Let the celebrations begin, but for all of us here in India, let’s exercise caution. Wishing you ‘Shubh Deepawali’ and safe travels thereafter. Come let’s enjoy life.
Deepawali a great happy occasion. PIN it for later!
