Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant festivals celebrated in India and by Indians all over the world. It is a time of joy, happiness, and the triumph of light over darkness. Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor by people of all ages and backgrounds. In 2022, Diwali falls on Thursday, October 27th. The festival lasts for five days, beginning on November 1st and ending on November 5th.
Diwali Calendar 2022:
1. Dhanteras – November 1st, 2022: Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations. It is considered an auspicious day to buy gold, silver, and other valuables. People also clean their homes and decorate them with flowers and rangoli patterns.
2. Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) – November 2nd, 2022: On this day, people take a ritual bath before sunrise and apply oil on their bodies. It is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity and good luck.
3. Diwali (Main Day) – November 3rd, 2022: Diwali, the main day of the festival, is celebrated with great pomp and show. People light oil lamps, burst crackers, exchange gifts, and sweets with their loved ones. The day is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
4. Govardhan Puja (Padwa) – November 4th, 2022: On this day, people worship Lord Krishna and offer food to cows. It is believed to bring prosperity and good health to the family.
5. Bhai Dooj – November 5th, 2022: Bhai Dooj is a day dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for the long life of their brothers and apply tilak on their foreheads.
Significance of Diwali:
Diwali holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and traditions. It is believed that on this day, Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and defeating the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya welcomed him by lighting oil lamps and bursting crackers. Since then, Diwali is celebrated as a symbol of victory of good over evil, light over darkness.
Apart from the religious significance, Diwali also marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year. It is a time to let go of the past and start afresh with new hopes and aspirations. The festival is also associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, who is believed to bring wealth and prosperity to the household.
Celebrations of Diwali:
Diwali is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm across India and among the Indian diaspora. People clean and decorate their homes with flowers, rangoli patterns, and diyas. They wear new clothes, exchange gifts, and sweets with family and friends. The streets are lit up with colorful lights and decorations, and fireworks light up the sky.
One of the main traditions of Diwali is to perform Lakshmi Puja at home. People worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, seeking their blessings for wealth, prosperity, and happiness. They offer prayers, light oil lamps, and perform aarti to invoke the blessings of the deities.
Another important aspect of Diwali celebrations is the bursting of firecrackers. While this tradition adds to the festive spirit, it is important to be mindful of the environment and the impact of noise and air pollution caused by fireworks. Many people are now opting for eco-friendly celebrations by lighting diyas and candles instead of bursting crackers.
FAQs:
Q: Why is Diwali celebrated?
A: Diwali is celebrated to mark the victory of good over evil, light over darkness. It is also a time to welcome wealth and prosperity into our lives.
Q: Can non-Hindus celebrate Diwali?
A: Yes, Diwali is a festival of joy and happiness that can be celebrated by people of all religions and backgrounds. It is a time to come together and spread love and positivity.
Q: What are some traditional dishes prepared during Diwali?
A: Some of the popular dishes prepared during Diwali include sweets like laddoos, barfis, and jalebis, as well as savory snacks like samosas and pakoras.
Q: How can I celebrate an eco-friendly Diwali?
A: You can celebrate an eco-friendly Diwali by avoiding firecrackers, using eco-friendly decorations, and opting for diyas and candles instead of electric lights.
In conclusion, Diwali is a festival that brings people together in celebration of light, hope, and prosperity. It is a time to reflect on the triumph of good over evil and to welcome the New Year with renewed enthusiasm and positivity. This year, let us celebrate Diwali with joy and gratitude, and spread the message of love and happiness to all.