The Origin of the festival of lights…
The mere mention of Diwali conjures up images of diyas, firecrackers and gifts; however, Diwali is not just about these things, there is a much deeper significance to it. Tracing the roots of this festival and understanding its history may help one actually fathom the real meaning and origin of Diwali.
The sacred and brilliantly lit festival of Diwali is an integral part of the ancient Indian civilization and its history is magnificently intertwined with origins and evolution of the Hindu religion.
Today, this festival has become the epitome of enjoyment and is celebrated with great exuberance across the country. The mere mention of Diwali conjures up images of diyas, firecrackers and gifts; however, Diwali is not just about these things. There is a much deeper significance to it. Tracing the roots of this festival and understanding its history may help one actually fathom the real meaning and origin of Diwali.
The Origin of Diwali…
Diwali can be traced back to ancient India, when it was probably an important harvest festival . However, there are various legends pointing to the origin of Diwali or ‘Deepawali.’ Some believe it to be the celebration of the marriage of Lakshmi with Lord Vishnu. Whereas in Bengal, the festival is dedicated to the worship of Mother Kali , the dark goddess of strength.
Lord Ganesha , the elephant-headed God, the symbol of auspiciousness and wisdom, is also worshiped in most Hindu homes on this day. In Jainism , Deepawali has an added significance to the great event of Lord Mahavira attaining the eternal bliss of nirvana .
Diwali also commemorates the return of Lord Rama along with Sita and Lakshman from his fourteen year long exile and vanquishing the demon-king Ravana. In joyous celebration of the return of their king, the people of Ayodhya, the Capital of Rama, illuminated the kingdom with earthen diyas (oil lamps) and burst crackers.
From Darkness Unto Light…
However the exact origin is yet to be confirmed, in each legend, myth and story of Deepawali lies the significance of the victory of good over evil; and so it is with each Deepawali and the lights that illuminate our homes and hearts, that this simple truth finds new reason and hope.
From darkness unto light — the light that empowers us to commit ourselves to good deeds, that which brings us closer to divinity. During Diwali, lights illuminate every corner of India and the scent of incense sticks hangs in the air, mingled with the sounds of fire-crackers, joy, togetherness and hope. Diwali is celebrated around the globe .
Outside India, it is more than a Hindu festival, it’s a celebration of South-Asian identities. If you are away from the sights and sounds of Diwali, light a diya , sit quietly, shut your eyes, withdraw the senses, concentrate on this supreme light and illuminate the soul.
