Diwali or Deepavali, also known as the festival of lights celebrated because of the triumph of good over evil across the world, especially in India. People celebrate it by lighting diyas, lights, and bursting crackers along with the exchange of sweets/gifts. But most of us don't delve into the story of Diwali.
As per our mythology, Lord Rama defeated evil Ravan which is celebrated as Vijayadashami/Dussera every year. Diwali marks the day for Lord Rama, Sita Devi, and brother Laxman who returned to their homeland Ayodhya after 14 years in exile. The villagers lit the path for Lord Rama who had defeated Ravan and came back home with Sita and Laxman. To celebrate this day, people across the country light up their homes and exchange greetings with each other. In fact, re-enactment of Ram Leela is performed in many parts of India to observe the occasion and remember our past.
Interestingly, another Diwali story revolves around Lord Krishna who defeated the demon Narakasur and freed his kingdom. People burn effigies of both Ravan/Narakasur to observe the win over evil.
People worship Goddess Lakshmi during Diwali. Maa Lakshmi is believed to be the goddess of wealth & prosperity. That is the reason, Lakshmi puja is celebrated to embrace the incoming Lakshmi or 'Dhan' to each one's life as Diwali is the time to settle debts and live peacefully. The day before Diwali is observed as Dhanteras. It is believed Goddess Lakshmi emerged through Samudra Manthan, sitting on a lotus, with a vessel stocked with gold, symbolizing good fortune, prosperity, happiness, and wealth. So people tend to buy Gold or any such materialistic things to strengthen their beliefs and bring prosperity.
It is our responsibility to carry forward and strengthen our history, culture, and rituals to the next generation.
Jai Sri Ram
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SPIRITUAL