HOW TO CELEBRATE DIWALI IN INDIA

DEEPAVALI OR DIWALI

Diwali, which is also called Deepavali or Dipavali, is a Hindu festival. It is called the festival of lights. In this festival, people light up their houses and shops. During this festival, people worship Ganesha, the elephant-headed representation of God, and Lakshmi, goddess of light, wisdom and fortune.

Sikhs celebrate this festival because of the returning of their sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, from the Gwalior Fort, where he had been imprisoned along with 53 other Kings by Emperor Jahangir (reason: being a non-Muslim), and all of those 53 Kings had been freed along with the Guru on the Guru's demand.

This festival is celebrated by the Hindus in the Hindu month of Kartik which falls sometime during the months of October-November. It is celebrated to mark the return of Lord Rama from 14 years of exile and his victory over the dämon Ravana. In many parts of India Diwali is celebrated for five consecutive days and is one of the most popular festivals in India. Diwali comes exactly twenty days after Dussehra. Hindus, and Sikhs alike regard it as a celebration of life and use the occasion to strengthen family and relationships. For Hindus it is one of the most important festivals, and in some parts of India it marks the beginning of the new year. It is also a significant festival for the Sikh community. It is celebrated by letting of fireworks by children to really light up the whole of India. It is celebrated not only in India but also abroad. The Hindus worship the god Ganesh during the Diwali. Hindus celebrate the festival by lighting up candles and letting fire crackers off.

Meaning in Hinduism

Kali means Dark (evil) and Chaudas - Fourteenth. Thus, celebrated on the 14th day of the dark half of Āshwin month, Kali Chaudas is the day allotted to the worship of Maha-Kali or Shakti and is believed that on this day Kali killed the wickedest NARAKASURA. Also referred to as Narak-Chaturdashi, Kali Chaudas is day to abolish laziness and evil which create hell in our life and shine light on life. The strength to protect others is referred as Kali, and if its used for God's work is called Mahakali.

Rituals associated with Kali Choudas

The poojan is performed with oil, flowers, Chanda and Hinduism. Coconuts are also offered to Hanumanji and prashad of Sesame seed, Brigadoon and rice with ghee and sugar.The rituals of Kali Choudas is strongly suggestive of the origin of Deepavaali as a harvest festival is performed. On this day delicacies are prepared from pounded semi-cooked rice (called Poha or Pova). This rice is taken from the fresh harvest available at that time. This custom is prevalent both in rural and urban areas especially in Western India.

On this day, a head wash and application of kajal in the eyes is believed to keep away the kali nazar (evil eye). Some say that those who are into tantra, learn their 'mantras' on this day. Alternatively, people offer Nived (food) to the goddess that is local to where they are originally from. This goddess is called their 'Kul Devi', in order to cast off evil spirits. Some families also offer food to their forefathers on this day. The second day of Diwali is known as Kali Choudas in Gujarat, Rajasthan & few part of Maharashtra.

This day celebrates the victory of the God Krishna over the demon of filth, Narakasura. On this day Hindus get up earlier than usual. The men will rub their bodies in perfumed oils before bathing. Afterwards, clean clothes are worn; some people wear new ones. A large breakfast is enjoyed with relatives and friends. In the evening, a mix of bright and loud fireworks are set off in an atmosphere of joyful fun and noise. Special sweet dishes are served as part of the midday meal. House are lit with oil lamps during the evening.

TYPE OF DIWALI:

1.   Diwali

2.   Bhau-beej

3.   Dhanteras

4.   Govardhan Puja

5.   Lakshmi Puja

6.   Naraka Chaturdashi

7.   Sal Mubarak