The festival of light is also known as Diwali or Deepavali. It is one of the most widely celebrated festival all over the world. Almost everyone in our nation irrespective of religion celebrates Diwali. This festival is associated with many stories and traditions. Let’s have a look at some of the most interesting details about Diwali that are necessary to know.
11 Lesser known facts about Diwali
- Celebrated by Numerous Religions
Diwali is primarily considered to be a Hindu festival but it is also an occasion that is celebrated by various religions which includes Jainism, Sikhism, Buddhism and other religions.
- Associated with different mythological stories
Diwali is connected to different stories. Its source can be outlined from to the Prehistoric India, during that time Diwali was an important harvest festival. Also there is a popular story of Lord Ram as it believed that Diwali was commemorated in order to celebrate the return of Lord Rama, Sita and his younger brother Lakshmana back to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. Also how Lord Krishna had defeated a demon king, Narakasur, and saved 16,000 daughters of God.
- Diwali is a 5 day celebration
Diwali is celebrated throughout the five days and each day has a particular way to celebrate. Day 1- Dhanteras, on this day Goddess Lakshmi is worshiped. Individuals believe this day to be a fortunate day to buy something valuable. Day 2- Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdasi and Roop Chaturdashi. Day 3- Diwali, This day is the main day of the festival. Day 4- Padva, It is understood that Lord Krishna conquered Indra by lifting the Govardhan Mountain. Day 5- Bhai Dooj- It marks the end of the celebration with pure joyfulness, warmth and beams as a festival.
- Lights and fireworks
The celebration consists of lights and the firecrackers. On the day of Diwali, the entire country illuminates with the magnificent lights and the bustling sounds of the fireworks. It symbolizes happiness and prosperity. It is also believed that the smoke caused by crackers wards off the harmful insects.
- Game of Speculation
Speculation is considered as a tradition during Diwali and according to a mythological story- goddess Parvati played dice with Lord Shiva and the moment she won, she had announced that whoever would speculate on the day of Diwali would be able to generate wealth all around the year.
- Cleanliness is next to Godliness
People start taking out the unwanted things out of their houses and keep their houses as clean as they can. As it is believed that the goddess of wealth-Goddess Lakshmi enters the clean homes lit with diyas on the evening of Diwali.
- Exchange of Gifts
Diwali is a festival of joyfulness, happiness and they also exchange gifts with their close family and friends. On the Diwali eve, people make a visit to their friends and relatives and interchange gifts and sweets.
- Golden Temple association
It is believed that the foundation stone was laid on the day of Diwali, to construct the most popular Golden Temple in 1577. And so Sikhs also celebrate Diwali as their own festival.
- Colourful Rangoli
Though Diwali is a festival of light, colours play an important role on this day. Making Rangolis is an essential part of Diwali celebration. Making Rangoli is a tradition in India and it is considered to make people make joyful. Creating a Rangolis at the entrance of our home attracts the goddess of wealth- Goddess Lakshmi.
- Biggest celebration in Leicester
Leicester is the English city that commemorates a huge Diwali celebration outside of India.
- Diwali is also an Official holiday in the neighbouring countries
The festival of Diwali is not only a national holiday in India but also in Guyana, Fiji, Mauritius, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Nepal, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and even in Pakistan.
Also read:
Diwali Shopping Checklist – 11 Essential Things to Buy!
15 Important Safety Tips For Diwali
Rituals for 5 Days of Diwali attract Wealth & Good Luck
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