Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India. It is commonly called the Festival of Lights and symbolizes the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.
Diwali is celebrated by millions of people around the world, particularly Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists. Although the religious significance differs between communities, the celebration shares many common traditions.
1. Why is Diwali celebrated?
There are several stories associated with Diwali.
Hindu tradition: One of the best-known stories comes from the ancient Hindu epic, the Ramayana. It tells how Lord Rama returned to his kingdom of Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and defeating the demon king Ravana. The people welcomed him home by lighting rows of oil lamps.
Jain tradition: Diwali marks the spiritual liberation (nirvana) of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism.
Sikh tradition: Diwali coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, which celebrates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji and 52 other princes from imprisonment in 1619.
2. How do people celebrate?
Some of the most recognizable traditions include:
- Lighting diyas: Small clay lamps filled with oil and fitted with cotton wicks are placed around homes.
- Rangoli: Beautiful, colourful patterns are created on floors using coloured powders, rice, flower petals and other materials.
- Fireworks: Fireworks and firecrackers are traditionally used to celebrate, although many communities now encourage quieter, environmentally friendly alternatives.
- Sweets and food: Families prepare and exchange traditional sweets, desserts and special meals.
- New clothes: People often wear new or traditional clothing.
- Family gatherings: Relatives and friends visit one another and exchange gifts.
3. The goddess Lakshmi
For many Hindus, one of the most important parts of Diwali is worshipping Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity and good fortune.
Families clean and decorate their homes, light lamps and perform special prayers called puja.
The belief is that welcoming Lakshmi into the home brings prosperity and good fortune for the coming year.
4. How long does Diwali last?
Diwali is generally celebrated over five days, although the customs vary by region.
| Day | Celebration |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Dhanteras – associated with prosperity and good fortune. |
| Day 2 | Naraka Chaturdashi – celebrates the defeat of evil. |
| Day 3 | Lakshmi Puja – the main Diwali celebration. |
| Day 4 | Govardhan Puja – celebrates an important story involving Lord Krishna. |
| Day 5 | Bhai Dooj – celebrates the relationship between brothers and sisters. |
5. Diwali around the world
Diwali is celebrated well beyond India.
Major celebrations take place in:
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Singapore
- Malaysia
- Nepal
- Australia
- Fiji
- South Africa
In Canada, communities organize Diwali festivals, cultural performances, traditional dances, food celebrations and public gatherings.
6. What does Diwali really mean?
Perhaps the most beautiful aspect of Diwali is that its central message is universal.
It reminds people that:
- Good can overcome evil.
- Knowledge can overcome ignorance.
- Hope can overcome despair.
- Light can overcome darkness.
A simple way to understand Diwali is this:
It isn't just about lighting lamps. It's about bringing light into our lives, our homes and the world around us.
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