Diwali festival

                                                   
 
 Diwali is a festival observed   throughout India. It is a festival which everyone looks 

forward to. It is the festival of lights. All corners of the villages, towns and cities are 

illuminated. It looks like a fairy land. This festival of lights is now celebrated in many other countries.

Like all other Indian festivals, there are legends associated with this festival There is 

a belief that on this day Lord Vishnu married Lakshmi. In Bengal, it is dedicated to the 
worship of Ma Kali. In Jainism it is associated with Lord Mahavira attaining Nirvana. It 
is widely believed that Narkasur, a demon was killed by Lord Krishna  on this day. 

Diwali also commemorates the return of Rama to Ayodhya after fourteen years, with 

his consort Sita.

Diwali signifies victory of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, hope over 

despair, light over darkness and right over wrong.  Diyas are lighted outside as well 

as inside the house. Shown below is the Ganesha corner of our house.

                                                

                                                                         

  Diwali is associated with wealth. There is a belief that the doors of the house must 

be kept open to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, Two days before Diwali, the festival, 

Dhan Teras is celebrated. On  this day it is auspicious to purchase gold, silver or 

diamonds. There is a belief that during Diwali, one must play cards, to be 

prosperous. 

In the morning all business men open new cash books and conduct Lakshmi Puja in

 their offices/shops/work places.

 Children light crackers and sparklers of all sorts. Some of these crackers are 

deafening. But these multiple coloured crackers illuminate the whole 

atmosphere.Bursting of crackers is being discouraged due to increasing pollution 

spread by burning of crackers.

    Rangoli is made in   many houses. It adds to the splendour of  other decorations. My little 

grand daughter made the Rangoli shown below  

                                               

The festival is a major celebration of flavors with feasts and numerous mithai (sweets, desserts), 
as well as a festival of emotions where Diwali rituals  bring family and friends together every 

year.  In  our family all the brothers/sisters with their children meet in one place. One dish is

prepared by each family. Gifts are exchanged.



pic1 courtesy google