Diwali Festival Overview
Diwali, often referred to as the Festival of Lights, is a significant event in the Hindu calendar, celebrated with great enthusiasm across India and among
the Indian diaspora. The festival's core theme revolves around the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. This joyous occasion is observed over several days, each with its own significance and associated rituals. The festivities typically include lighting lamps and diyas, performing prayers to deities like Lakshmi and Ganesha, exchanging gifts, and enjoying festive meals with family and friends. Diwali is not just a religious celebration; it also symbolizes the renewal of life and the reaffirmation of hope, making it a time of profound cultural importance. The preparation for Diwali often begins weeks in advance, with homes being cleaned and decorated, and new clothes being purchased, all contributing to the festive atmosphere.
Dhanteras: The Beginning
Dhanteras marks the commencement of the Diwali celebrations, typically taking place two days before the main Diwali festival. This day is considered highly auspicious and is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, along with Lord Kubera, the god of wealth. It is a common practice to purchase gold, silver, or new utensils on this day, symbolizing the influx of wealth and the prosperity for the household. The significance of Dhanteras lies in the belief that any new item bought on this day brings good fortune. During Dhanteras, lamps are lit throughout the home to ward off evil spirits, with special significance given to lighting a diya at the main entrance. The ritual is performed to welcome the deities into the home and to invite blessings of health, wealth, and overall well-being. The day is also associated with the celebration of health and well-being, with Ayurvedic practitioners offering their services.
Lakshmi Ganesh Puja
Following Dhanteras, Lakshmi Ganesh Puja is a key element of the Diwali celebrations. This puja is performed on the main Diwali day and is one of the most important rituals of the entire festival. The puja involves invoking the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, asking for wealth, prosperity, and the removal of obstacles. The ritual usually takes place in the evening, when the lamps and diyas are lit, symbolizing the welcoming of the divine light and prosperity. Family members gather to perform the puja, and the atmosphere is filled with prayers, chants, and the aroma of incense. The offerings made to the deities include flowers, sweets, and other items symbolizing abundance. It is a time when people seek blessings for a prosperous new year and pray for the well-being of their families. The completion of the puja is often followed by the distribution of sweets and the exchange of gifts, reinforcing the spirit of togetherness and generosity.
Govardhan Puja's Relevance
Govardhan Puja, celebrated a day after the main Diwali festival, holds great significance in Hindu tradition. It commemorates the day when Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan hill to protect the people of Vrindavan from torrential rains. This day is marked by the preparation of a small hill made of cow dung, representing the Govardhan Parvat. The devotees then worship this hill, offering food and prayers. It is a celebration of the victory of good over evil and a symbol of protection and sustenance. In many homes, special foods are prepared and offered to Lord Krishna, including the famous 'Annakut,' a mountain of food prepared from various grains, vegetables, and fruits. This offering symbolizes abundance and the importance of agriculture and nature. The ritual underlines the importance of protecting the environment and respecting the natural resources that sustain life. It also involves performing a 'parikrama' or circumambulation around the Govardhan hill, completing the devotion with deep faith and gratitude.
Bhai Dooj: A Celebration
Bhai Dooj, the final day of the Diwali festivities, celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. This day is dedicated to the expression of love, affection, and mutual respect within the family. Sisters perform a 'tilak' ceremony, applying a 'tilak' (vermilion mark) on their brothers' foreheads, praying for their long life and well-being. Brothers, in return, offer gifts and blessings to their sisters. The festival is a time to strengthen family ties and recognize the enduring nature of the brother-sister relationship. The rituals include sisters performing aarti for their brothers and offering sweets and dry fruits, while the brothers reciprocate with gifts and blessings. It’s a significant occasion for family gatherings and for cherishing the bond that holds families together. This day also often involves families enjoying a special meal together, reinforcing a sense of togetherness and the importance of family values.
Complete Festival List
Understanding the specific dates for each event is crucial for proper celebration of Diwali. While the exact dates may vary slightly based on lunar cycles, a general overview helps in planning. The full seven-day festival begins with Dhanteras, followed by Choti Diwali, the main Diwali celebration, Govardhan Puja, and concludes with Bhai Dooj. This schedule allows individuals to plan their activities, ensuring they do not miss any of the significant rituals and celebrations. Various resources and calendars provide precise dates, which are updated each year, helping people to prepare accordingly. This comprehensive approach ensures that the festivities can be enjoyed fully. For detailed planning and adherence to specific traditions, consulting a local almanac or religious authority provides the most accurate guidance.
