What Indian holiday was yesterday? It was none other than Diwali, the festival of lights. Celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country, Diwali marks the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. This year, Diwali was celebrated on November 4th, and it brought joy, happiness, and a sense of unity among people of all ages and backgrounds.
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism, celebrated by millions of people around the world. The festival commemorates the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. It is also associated with the Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, who is believed to visit homes during this time.
The celebration of Diwali begins with the “Dhanteras,” a day dedicated to wealth and prosperity. It is followed by “Naraka Chaturdashi,” the day when Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura. The main day of the festival is “Lakshmi Puja,” where people worship Goddess Lakshmi and seek her blessings for wealth and prosperity. The festival concludes with “Bhai Dooj,” a day dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters.
During Diwali, homes and streets are adorned with colorful lights, rangoli (artistic designs made with colored rice), and flowers. Fireworks light up the night sky, adding to the festive atmosphere. People wear new clothes, exchange sweets and gifts, and visit friends and family to share the joy of the festival.
The festival of Diwali also holds great importance in other religions and communities. For Sikhs, it marks the anniversary of the creation of the Sikh temple, known as the Golden Temple, in Amritsar. For Jains, it commemorates the enlightenment of Lord Mahavira. For Buddhists, it is the birthday of Lord Buddha.
What makes Diwali a unique and special festival is its ability to bring people together, regardless of their religion or background. It is a time for forgiveness, reconciliation, and the strengthening of relationships. The festival teaches us the importance of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.
In conclusion, Diwali, the Indian festival of lights, was celebrated yesterday, and it brought immense joy and happiness to millions of people. It is a festival that highlights the values of unity, peace, and prosperity, and it serves as a reminder of the beauty and diversity of Indian culture.
