Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a celebration in Hinduism that commemorates the story of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana returning to their homeland after 14 years of exile. It comes from the great epic Ramayana, where Lord Rama defeats the ten-headed Demon King Ravana. Diwali is one of the largest holidays in the world, with over one billion people globally celebrating it.
This year, Diwali will be celebrated on Sunday, November 12th, but the dates of Diwali vary depending on the Lunar Calendar. For example, Diwali will be celebrated on November 1st in 2024, but that date is subject to change.
Celebrations and Traditions in Diwali
Diwali is traditionally celebrated by lighting up one’s entire home with Diyas (lamps), gift-giving, lighting fireworks, and through various religious ceremonies. It is also a tradition to buy new clothes for Diwali. Different regions of India may have their own Diwali traditions. Some include cleansing coins in raw milk, worshipping the goddess Lakshmi, and making fried food. One of the most famous traditions is the ritual of burning effigies of Ravana to commemorate his defeat, in the Dussehra Festival before Diwali. These statues can be hundreds of feet tall.
More Information about Diwali:
- https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/what-is-diwali-and-how-is-it-celebrated-in-india-and-the-diaspora
- https://asiasociety.org/education/ramayana
- https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/festivals/diwali-lights-2023-why-we-light-diyas-on-deepawali-101699520840379.html
Cover Photo by Udayaditya Barua