Happy Diwali

The festival of Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness. According to the Hindu calendar, Diwali falls every year on Amavasya (new moon) i.e. on the 15th day of Kartik month. Generally, this occurs somewhere between late October and early November

Among all the festivals celebrated in India, Diwali has great importance from both social and religious point of view. It is also called Deepotsav. ‘Tamso Ma Jyotirgamaya’ (O Lord!) take me from darkness to light. This is the command of the Upanishads. It is also celebrated by people of Sikh, Buddhist and Jain religions. People of Jain religion celebrate it as Moksha Divas of Mahavir and Sikh community celebrates it as Bandi Chhor Diwas.

It is believed that on the day of Diwali, King Ram of Ayodhya returned after his fourteen years of exile. The hearts of the people of Ayodhya were filled with joy at the arrival of their most beloved king. The people of Ayodhya lit ghee lamps to welcome Shri Ram. That dark dark Amavasya night of Kartik month sparkled with the light of lamps. From then till today, Indians celebrate this festival of lights every year with joy and enthusiasm. Indians believe that truth always triumphs and falsehood is destroyed. This is what Diwali embodies – Asato ma Sadgamaya, Tamaso ma Jyotirgamaya. Diwali is the festival of cleanliness and light. Preparations for Diwali begin several weeks in advance. People start the work of cleaning their houses, shops etc. Repair, painting, whitewashing etc. work starts in the houses. People also clean and decorate shops. The streets in the markets are also decorated with golden flags. Even before Diwali, homes, localities and markets all look clean and decorated.