Deepawali ( Diwali ) : The Festival of Lights

Introduction 

Deepawali, also called Diwali, is one of the biggest and most joyful festivals celebrated in India. It is celebrated for three days: first day Dhanteras in which people's buy new utensils and thing for their home, next day is for choti Diwali and next day main Diwali. It is known as the festival of lights because on this day people light lamps, candles, and colorful diyas to brighten their homes. The whole country shines beautifully, and people feel happy and peaceful. Diwali represents the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Families come together, wear new clothes, prepare sweets, and share gifts. Children enjoy bursting crackers and decorating homes. Diwali also spreads the message of hope, happiness, and unity, reminding us to let goodness win in our lives.

The Story Behind Celebrating Deepawali

There are many stories about why Diwali is celebrated, but the most famous one is from the epic Ramayana. It tells us that Lord Rama returned to his kingdom Ayodhya after spending fourteen years in exile and defeating the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya were very happy and welcomed him by lighting oil lamps, known as diyas, all around the city. The whole kingdom shone brightly that night, just like a sky full of stars. From that day, people began celebrating Diwali every year to remember the victory of good over evil and truth over lies.

How People Celebrate Deepawali

The celebration of Diwali begins several days before the main festival. People clean and decorate their homes with lights, flowers, and beautiful rangolis. Markets become crowded with shoppers buying sweets, clothes, gifts, and diyas. On the main day, everyone lights lamps and candles to make their homes bright. Families gather together to perform prayers and enjoy delicious food. At night, fireworks fill the sky with shining colors. People visit their relatives and friends to exchange greetings and sweets. The spirit of love, joy, and sharing makes Diwali special for everyone, spreading happiness everywhere.

Relates Goddess Lakshmi 

Deepawali is also the festival of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, fortune, and prosperity. People believe that Goddess Lakshmi visits clean, bright homes and blesses them with happiness and success. That is why everyone cleans their houses and decorates them beautifully with lights and flowers before the festival. On the evening of Diwali, families perform Lakshmi Puja, offering sweets, flowers, coins, and prayers to the goddess. They keep lamps burning all night to welcome her into their homes. This tradition teaches people to work hard, stay honest, and be thankful for the blessings they receive.

Eco-Friendly Deepawali

In recent years, many people have started celebrating Diwali in an eco-friendly way. They avoid using firecrackers that cause air and noise pollution. Instead, they light traditional diyas and candles, share sweets, and spend time with family. This helps keep the environment clean and the air fresh. Schools and communities also organize awareness programs to encourage people to celebrate safely and responsibly. Planting trees and using eco-friendly decorations have also become popular. An eco-friendly Diwali not only keeps our surroundings healthy but also spreads true joy and peace, showing care for nature and all living beings.

The Message of Deepawali

Deepawali is more than just a festival; it carries a deep and powerful message. It reminds us that light always wins over darkness and goodness always defeats evil. It teaches us to remove anger, jealousy, and hatred from our hearts and fill them with kindness and positivity. Diwali inspires unity and peace among people of all backgrounds. It encourages us to forgive others and start a new chapter filled with hope and love. By spreading light and happiness around us, we make our world brighter and better, just like Diwali night full of shining diyas.

Conclusion

Deepawali is a festival that brings light, love, and joy into everyone’s life. It connects families, strengthens friendships, and fills every heart with hope. Whether celebrated with diyas, sweets, or prayers, the spirit of Diwali reminds us to stay positive, spread happiness, and believe in the power of goodness.