Diwali, or Deepavali, is mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts like the Padma Purana and Skanda Purana and is celebrated after the harvest season. The word itself is derived from the Sanskrit term Deepavali, where “Deep” means “light” and “Avali” signifies “series.”
According to Sanskrit scriptures such as the Padma Purana and Skanda Purana, the diyas (lamps) used during Diwali symbolically represent parts of the sun. Diwali night coincides with the darkest new moon of the Hindu lunisolar month, typically occurring between mid-October and mid-November in the Gregorian calendar.
The five-day Diwali celebration begins with Dhanteras. Purchasing jewellery, especially gold or silver, on this day is considered auspicious in India.
The second day, known as Narak Chaturdasi, or the 14th lunar day, involves lighting 14 diyas to ward off evil. The third day is when Diwali is celebrated in full with family, marked by lighting 21 diyas. On the fourth day, people perform Govardhan Puja in honour of Lord Krishna, who, according to myth, lifted Govardhan Hill to protect the people of Vrindavan from heavy rains. The festivities conclude on the fifth day with Bhai Dooj.
Diwali is deeply rooted in Indian culture, with various rituals to observe:
1. Shopping
Traditional families start shopping well before Diwali. It’s customary to wear new clothes each day of the celebration to express reverence and excitement for the occasion. Men typically wear kurtas or dhotis, while women often showcase new wardrobes, adding a festive flair.
2. Purchasing Precious Metals
It’s considered essential to buy gold or precious metals on Dhanteras to offer to Lord Kuber, the god of wealth. Offering even a small gold item or a silver utensil is believed to attract wealth and prosperity to one’s family and home.
3. Rangoli
Homes are decorated with rangoli, colourful designs made from rice powder, over the five days. Rangoli powder comes in many colours, and beautiful patterns often adorn entryways, enhancing the holiday spirit.
4. Chaumukhi Diya Lighting and Ganesh-Laxmi Puja
The four-cornered chaumukhi diya, which uses four wicks, is lit each evening from Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj. Lighting this diya is believed to remove darkness in all directions, inviting prosperity and harmony from Goddess Lakshmi.
5. Making Kajal
During Diwali, kajal (black kohl) is often applied to money vaults, doors, and sometimes to the eyes to counteract the effects of smoke from firecrackers. The tradition of applying kajal made from Diwali lamps is thought to protect against negative effects of the smoke, bringing good fortune.