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Diwali or deepavali is the grand festival of lights that signifies the triumph of light ever darkness, good over evil, justice over injustice, and knowledge over ignorance.

It is the season when devout Hindus thoroughly clean their houses, buy new wares and clothes, make all kinds of sweets and prepare themselves for the worship of the great goddess, Mahalakshmi – the bestower of health, wealth, wisdom, peace and prosperity. The streets are illuminated with lights. Mahalaskshmi is also considered the goddess of light. Hence the lighting of lamps signifies the pomp and fanfare attributed to her boons.

Legend has it that on this day, Hindu god Rama returned to his kingdom in Ayodhya in northern India after defeating the demon king Ravana. Millions of earthen lamps and candles were said to have been lit to mark the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and victory over Ravana.

Diwali marks the culmination of weeks of fasting and both inner and outer personal cleaning. The festival takes place on the new moon of Karthik Choly month of the dark fortnight. Diwali is the darkest night of the year.

The symbolism of light is essential to this festival. It is understood that without light there can be no life. Light is responsible for the development of all that is living. Light is associated with heat, the sun and the divine. It is also stated that during this day Goddess Lakshmi resides in the flame of the deya making the purpose of lighting the deyas (Clay lamps) even more significant.

Historical importance pervades the festivity of diwali. The Hindu Diaspora celebrates in the form of lit Deyas signifying the return of Lord Rama after fourteen years of exile in the forest and the appearance of Goddess Lakshmi. Diwali and the significance of the lit deyas go a step further.

Diwali therefore is the spiritual upliftment of all mankind, irrespective of race, religion, nationality, custom, age or sex. Thousands turn out for special prayers, each one contributing his own little lamp to the bright light, holding aloft a warm spirit of joy enthusiasm mixed with religious reverence. At a time of hatred and terror world wide, the occasion stands out as a symbol of equality and peace.

Diwali which falls on November 11th has its origin in the Hindu mythology. It is celebrated to mark the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.


- ROYCE LOBOW,
  St. Mary’s A.I. Hr. Sec. School.

 

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