Diwali: The Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a major Hindu festival that is celebrated every autumn in the northern hemisphere. It is a festival of lights, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. The festival spans over five days and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists around the world.

History and Significance

Diwali has various historical and mythological significances. In Hinduism, it commemorates the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana from their 14-year exile and the defeat of the demon king Ravana. In Sikhism, it celebrates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji and 52 other princes from imprisonment by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. For Jains, Diwali marks the attainment of moksha (liberation) by Mahavira, the last Tirthankara.

Celebrations

Diwali is marked by the lighting of oil lamps (diyas) and candles, decorating homes with colorful Rangoli designs, exchanging gifts, offering prayers to deities, and bursting of fireworks. People also clean and renovate their homes and offices, and wear new clothes as part of the celebrations. Special prayers and religious rituals are performed in temples and homes, and delicious sweets and savory dishes are prepared and shared.

Study Guide for Diwali

1. What does Diwali symbolize?
   Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
2. How long does the festival of Diwali last?
   The festival of Diwali spans over five days.
3. Who is the central figure in the celebration of Diwali in Hinduism?
   The central figure in the celebration of Diwali in Hinduism is Lord Rama.
4. What are some common traditions associated with Diwali?
   Common traditions associated with Diwali include lighting oil lamps, decorating homes with Rangoli designs, exchanging gifts, offering prayers, and bursting fireworks.
5. What are some of the historical and mythological significances of Diwali?
   Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama, the release of Guru Hargobind Ji, and the attainment of moksha by Mahavira in Hinduism, Sikhism, and Jainism respectively.

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