From Ancient India to the Modern World
A Festival of Light and Joy
Each year, as autumn nights grow longer, millions of homes across the world burst into a warm glow of flickering diyas (oil lamps), fairy lights, and colourful decorations. This spectacle marks Diwali, or Deepawali, one of the most beloved and significant festivals in Indian culture.
But Diwali is far more than just a festival of lights. It’s a celebration of hope over despair, knowledge over ignorance, and good triumphing over evil. The origins, though rooted deeply in Indian mythology and tradition, Diwali has evolved into a global celebration of togetherness and renewal, embraced by communities far beyond the borders of India.
The Mythology - The Return of Lord Rama
At the heart of Diwali lies one of the most celebrated tales in Hindu mythology, the story of Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
According to the ancient epic Ramayana, Lord Rama was exiled from his kingdom, Ayodhya, for fourteen years by his father, King Dasharatha. Accompanied by his devoted wife Sita and loyal brother Lakshmana, Rama ventured into the forests, where he faced many trials, including the abduction of Sita by the demon king Ravana of Lanka.
After a fierce battle between good and evil, Rama defeated Ravana and returned to Ayodhya with Sita and Lakshmana. The people of Ayodhya, overjoyed at their beloved prince’s return, lit rows of clay lamps — diyas, to welcome him home and illuminate the dark night. This symbolic act of light conquering darkness forms the spiritual essence of Diwali.
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The Worship of Goddess Lakshmi: The Blessings of Prosperity
Another important aspect of Diwali is the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and fortune. It is believed that during Diwali, Lakshmi roams the Earth and visits homes that are clean, well-lit, and filled with joy. Families decorate their homes, light lamps, and open their doors to welcome her blessings.
In many regions of India, Lakshmi Puja, performed on the third day of Diwali, is considered the most auspicious time for starting new ventures or making significant purchases. It’s a moment of reflection, to express gratitude for abundance and to pray for future prosperity and wellbeing.
The Many Stories of Diwali Across India
India’s vast cultural diversity means that Diwali is celebrated with different stories and traditions across regions and religions.
- In Northern India, it commemorates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya.
- In Gujarat, it is primarily dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and marks the beginning of a new financial year.
- In Bengal, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja, honouring the fierce goddess Kali.
- In South India, many celebrate the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura, symbolising the removal of evil and ignorance.
- In Sikhism, the day also marks the release of the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji, from imprisonment, celebrated as Bandi Chhor Divas.
- In Jainism, it commemorates Lord Mahavira’s enlightenment and liberation.
Thus, Diwali stands as a festival that transcends religious boundaries, uniting people through the shared values of peace, goodness, and new beginnings.
The Five Days of Celebration
Traditionally, Diwali spans five days, each carrying its own meaning and rituals:
- Dhanteras – The first day marks the beginning of festivities, celebrating wealth and wellbeing. People clean their homes and often purchase gold or utensils.
- Naraka Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali) – The second day symbolises the destruction of evil, recalling Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura.
- Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali Day) – The central day of Diwali when families light diyas, perform prayers, and exchange gifts.
- Govardhan Puja – This day celebrates Lord Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan to protect villagers from torrential rain.
- Bhai Dooj – The final day honours the bond between brothers and sisters, much like Raksha Bandhan.
Diwali Around the World
Over the centuries, Diwali has travelled far beyond India’s borders. Today, it is celebrated with immense enthusiasm across Nepal, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Malaysia, Singapore, Fiji, Trinidad and Tobago, and among Indian communities in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, and beyond.
In the UK, Diwali has become a cherished cultural event that lights up cities from London to Leicester. Leicester, in particular, hosts one of the largest Diwali celebrations outside of India, drawing tens of thousands of people to its famous Golden Mile for light displays, fireworks, and community gatherings.
For many in the UK, Diwali is both a connection to heritage and an opportunity to share Indian culture with friends and neighbours. Schools, workplaces, and local councils often join in the festivities, reflecting the spirit of multiculturalism and unity.
The Universal Message of Diwali
Beyond the myths and rituals, Diwali’s message resonates universally. It reminds us that even in the darkest of times, light can overcome darkness, and that hope, goodness, and compassion always prevail.
It’s a festival that encourages self-reflection — to let go of negativity, mend relationships, and embrace new beginnings. The lighting of diyas becomes not just a ritual, but a metaphor for illuminating our hearts and homes with kindness and positivity.
In Essence
Whether celebrated in the ancient city of Ayodhya or the bustling streets of London, Diwali continues to embody the same timeless ideals — the triumph of good over evil, the celebration of life, and the renewal of hope.
As the diyas glow and fireworks light up the sky, Diwali serves as a beautiful reminder that no matter where we come from, we all share the same desire — to bring light into our lives and the lives of others.
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