How to Celebrate Diwali

Knowing how to celebrate Diwali is of interest to many as it is one of the most important festivals of Hindus that is celebrated in many parts of the world, especially in India. Diwali is also called the festival of lights and signifies the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. It is observed on the darkest night of the Hindu Lunar month of Kartik that usually falls in the months of October or November. Though observed on a dark night, it is called the festival of lights because people light up their homes and burn firecrackers.

Reason for Hindus to celebrate Diwali

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Rama returned to his kingdom of Ayodhya on this day after defeating Ravana, the king of Lanka. This day is also celebrated in remembrance of victory of Lord Krishna over demon Narkasura, who had terrorized the people of Vrindavana. Another story links this day with the marriage of Lord Vishnu with Goddess Laxmi. Diwali was the day when Lord Vishnu took the avatar of Vamana, a dwarf priest to kill demon king Bali to bring joy and happiness to the people of his kingdom. Different people believe in different reasons, but all agree that the festival of Diwali signifies the victory of light over darkness and the victory of good over evil.

The festivals associated with Diwali

Diwali is a word that literally means row of lights or lamps. Diwali is celebrated on four days consecutively. Dhantrayodashi is the first of the festivals that falls on the 13th day of the dark fortnight of the month of Ashvin. On this day, Hindus worship Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi to please them so that they become rich and prosperous. Next day, Narak Chaturdashi is observed. This day is devoted to cleaning of the house and self. Many people get their house painted and cleaned to remove all the filth from the house. Next evening is the day of the worship of Goddess Laxmi. Lord Kuber, who is the god of all wealth, is also worshipped along with Goddess Laxmi on this day.

How to celebrate Diwali or the festival of lights

In the traditional sense, one should place burning diyas or candles at all places in his house to light the house. Children light up firecrackers to enjoy the festive spirit of Diwali. People make merry and exchange gifts and sweets to celebrate the festival of lights. In general, this festival is all about bonding with each other and expressing love by greeting and paying visits to each other’s house. Decorating the house is one good way to celebrate this festival though one should avoid burning firecrackers as they pollute the environment. Businessmen observe the day as New Year and make a fresh start by worshipping their business books.