The autumn festival of lights and conviviality arrive again! Diwali is at the leading edge of Hindu festivals. It is the most anticipated and preferred occasion of India, celebrated not just all over the country but in some other countries as well as Singapore, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Malaysia, etc.
Diwali in Different Religions
The festival holds significance not only for Hindus. It is wholeheartedly commemorated in other religions like Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism.
Diwali for Hindus
A lot of Hindus believe that Diwali marks the espousal day of Lord Vishnu with Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth. Bengalis offer prayers to Goddess Kali and carry out Lakshmi puja as a part of the celebration. People in Maharashtra pray to Lord Ganesha, who they regard as an epitome of virtuous inception and courageous eliminator of stumbling blocks. And this day symbolises the return of Ram, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshman after defeating Ravan and returning home after an exile of fourteen years. The Diyas are lit to illuminate the path for Lord Ram and to signify the triumph of good over evil.
Diwali for Buddhists
It is on this auspicious day that King Ashoka left the path of violence and brutality. He surrendered himself to peace and tranquillity. He converted to Buddhism and hence this day is also marked as ‘Ashoka Vijayadashmi”. Buddhists chant the mantras and remember Lord Buddha and the king.
Diwali for Sikhs
Guru Hargobind Singh Ji was able to win his battle of freedom against the Mughal Emperor Jahangir and was able to free himself as well other gurus and Hindu kings from that slavery. And they all took shelter in Golden Temple at Amritsar. Every year on this day, Sikhs decorate the Golden Temple in the extremely exquisite way and organize various feasts.
Diwali for Jains
People of the Jain community believe that on this day Lord Mahavira had acquired absolute awakening or Nirvana. The people from the Jain community also lit lamps and put colourful lights. The light signifies the passage for itself deporting from the body and leading towards the path of enlightenment and flying away from reincarnation. It also represents the light of wisdom and knowledge.
Diwali brings happiness
Diwali is a 5-day Festival- Dhanteras, Choti Diwali, Badi Diwali, Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj. And each day it is own significance.
The occasion lets us experience the clean home good vibes and enhances social unity. We adopt a positive outlook and exchange gifts with near dear ones. We dress the best and enjoying amazing delicacies.
And above all, no event brings the friends and families together as the festival of Diwali.
Learn more about Dr Prerna Kohli
Read more about 7 Ways to Enjoy Diwali More
