Diwali- Festival of Lights 印度燈節

Diwali- Festival of Lights

Diwali

Diwali, also known as the “Festival of Lights”, is a holiday that celebrates good over evil, and blessings over victory. Although the whole country celebrates with the same enthusiasm, different religions have their own unique stories and legends associated with Diwali.

For the Hindus, Diwali reminds them of the return of Prince Rama to Ayodhya, after he defeated their enemies in a fourteen-year-long war. The people of Ayodhya lit lamps along the way to light up the path for the prince.

For the Jains, Diwali is the day Lord Mahavira attained nirvana, later on, he established the dharma, followed by Jains.

For the Sikhs, this holiday commemorates Guru Hargobind’s persistence for justice. In 1619, Guru Hargobind was imprisoned along with 52 other princes. When he was released, he refused to leave until all 52 of the other princes could leave with him.

Different beliefs, same celebration. Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, follows clay lamps into people’s homes, to bring them prosperity for the upcoming year. That’s why people decorate their houses with colorful lights and lamps on this day.

Rangoli is a beautiful part of this tradition. People draw rangoli on the floor with colorful flowers and powders to welcome gods and good luck! The day is followed by amazing food, time spent with family, and ended with a fascinating firework show.