Why do we celebrate Diwali? Story behind Diwali celebration and history

Diwali, widely regarded as the Festival of Lights, is observed by millions of Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains worldwide. The festival honors the victory of goodness over evil, often featured through illuminated lights, fireworks, exchange of sweets, and family gatherings. Diwali commemorates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya with Maa Sita and Lord Lakshman after spending 14 years in exile and defeating the King of Lanka, Ravana, marking it as a moment to honor culture, spirituality, and unity.

Mythological Stories Behind Diwali Celebration

One of the significant stories in Hindu mythology commemorates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya following the defeat of the demon king Ravana. Villagers lighten the city with oil lamps, leading Rama, Sita Devi, and Lakshmana home. In several places, dramatizations of this instance form a major part of Diwali celebrations.


Another legend cites the story of Lord Krishna’s triumph over the demon Narakasura, liberating his kingdom. After this victory, Krishna announced the day as a festival. In some regions, effigies of the demon kings from both the stories are burned to signify the victory of good over evil.

Diwali also honors Goddess Lakshmi, the divinity of wealth,abundance, and fertility. Mythology recalls that she selects Lord Vishnu, one of Hinduism’s principal deities in Hinduism, as her consort on the night of Diwali.

In other cultures , Diwali coincides with harvest festivals and New Year celebrations. Regardless of the narratives and history, it is always a celebration of fresh beginnings, light over darkness, and positivity.

Rituals and Customs

People lighten up the streets and homes with lamps and colorful lights while celebrating with music, dance, and fireworks. The noise and brilliance are cited to repel evil spirits while enjoying the victory of virtue.

Cleaning and decorating home signifies a new beginning akin to Lunar New Year practices. New clothes are bought, debts are cleared, and family relationships are renewed. In specific historical situations, Indian and Pakistani soldiers exchanged sweets along the border as a gesture of goodwill.

Sweets, or mithai, are significant to Diwali celebration. Friends and family exchange boxes with sweets such as pedas, ladoos, jalebis, barfis, and dried fruits.

When is Diwali Celebrated?

The festival’s schedules shift every year, following the Hindu lunisolar calendar, typically between mid-October and mid-November. Officially it spans five days long, preparations normally start in advance, and fireworks and celebrations will be continuing for many days after too.

FAQs:

Q1: What is Diwali?
Diwali, also regarded as the Festival of Lights, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated globally. It signifies the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

Q2: How long does Diwali last?
Diwali normally lasts five days, with preparations often beginning days in advance.