1st November 2024, Friday
Diwali is called the "Festival of Lights" because it involves the lighting of lamps, candles, and fireworks. The festival signifies the victory of light over darkness and the triumph of good over evil. Here's why Diwali is associated with light:
Symbolic Meaning: Light symbolizes knowledge, purity, and goodness. It represents the victory of righteousness and enlightenment over ignorance and darkness. Diwali celebrates the spiritual awakening and the dispelling of ignorance from one's life.
Historical Significance: Diwali originated from the ancient Hindu epic, Ramayana, which narrates the story of Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. According to the legend, when Lord Rama returned, people of Ayodhya welcomed him by lighting thousands of lamps to illuminate his path and show their joy. This act of lighting lamps continues to be an essential part of Diwali celebrations, symbolizing the joyous return of Rama and the victory of light over darkness.
Welcoming Goddess Lakshmi: Diwali is also associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. People believe that on Diwali night, Goddess Lakshmi visits homes that are well-lit and decorated. Lighting lamps and candles is done to invite and guide the goddess into people's homes, symbolizing the arrival of wealth, prosperity, and auspiciousness.
Festive Decorations: During Diwali, homes, temples, and public spaces are adorned with decorative lights, colorful Rangoli (artistic patterns made with colored powders), and diyas (small clay lamps). The illumination of these lights creates a vibrant and joyful atmosphere, spreading warmth and positivity.
Celebratory Spirit: Diwali is a time of celebration and joy. In addition to lighting lamps and candles, people also burst fireworks, which add to the spectacle of lights. The bursting of fireworks is believed to drive away evil spirits and negative energies.
The Festival of Lights encapsulates the symbolism and traditions of Diwali, where light is embraced as a powerful metaphor for goodness, knowledge, prosperity, and the victory of righteousness.