Diwali

By: Sahana Duggal

Photo Credit: Vandana Duggal

Introduction

As my family and I gather around the balcony, the night sky bursts into a symphony of color. Against the backdrop of shimmering fireworks, young children chase each other with firecrackers, their long silk gowns trailing behind them on the gravel ground. Around us, the house is adorned with vibrant orange flowers and statues of sacred deities. The sight of all of my loved ones gathered together fills my heart with immense joy.

Diwali is not just an Indian festival; it is the celebration of light triumphing over darkness. This event has forged several cherished memories that I hold dearly to this day.

Difference in Historical & Religious Backgrounds

Diwali is celebrated with diverse beliefs and traditions that span across various regions in India. Each religious group's unique interpretation of the festival adds to its rich cultural essence.

North India historically celebrates Diwali to commemorate the return of Prince Rama to the city of Ayodhya after over a decade of exile and the rescue of his wife, goddess Sita, after being held hostage by the cruel ruler Ravana. This tale serves as a reminder that even in the worst of times, good will always prevail. Its symbolism gives us hope that courage, love, and righteousness can overcome individuals' greatest challenges.

In South India, Diwali acknowledges the defeat of King Narakasura, who had inflicted harsh punishments on all of those who had opposed him and imprisoned over 16,000 women within the walls of his palace. Not only does this historical belief provide a beacon of hope against injustice, but it also serves as a voice for women. As the women were liberated from this oppressive king’s rule, they gained more autonomy and freedom of expression.

National Geographic states that "for Sikhs, whose religion arose in the late 15th century as a movement within Hinduism that is particularly devoted to Vishnu, Diwali commemorates the release of the 17th-century guru Hargobind after 12 years of imprisonment by Mughal emperor Jahangir.” The historical event represents the struggle for religious freedom and unwavering commitment to justice. Guru Hargobind’s release was not just mere liberation; rather, it symbolized the triumph of truth over tyranny and spiritual values over oppression.

Jains observe Diwali as the time Lord Mahavira, a prominent great Jain teacher, attained nirvana. The prospect of an individual attaining nirvana had set forward a motion for Jains to live up to a set of moral standards in pursuit to someday attaining such spiritual enlightenment.

Buddhists celebrate Diwali to commemorate the Hindu Emperor Ashoka, who converted his religious beliefs to support Buddhism. His embrace of Buddhist principles, including non-violence and oppression, had a profound impact on the spread and development of Buddhism across the Indian subcontinent and beyond.

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Cultural Essence of Diwali

Diwali is an ancient Indian festival characterized by vibrant displays of lights, color and festive spirit. Diwali is known as “the festival of lights,” deriving from the Sanskrit language. This tradition is notorious for its illuminating clay lamps, or diyas, that adorn the exterior of homes. This festival is recognized by more than one billion people from across the globe.

Traditionally, women wear saris, a piece of fabric wrapped around the body, with the left end hanging over the shoulder. These types of clothing are often colorful and bedazzled with jewels and sequins, further adding to the event's festive spirit. Men wear a kurta, a long-sleeved, loose-fitted shirt that falls down to about knee length. They, too, are filled with vibrant pigments of color and intricately woven patterns.

Common foods eaten during this event include sweet delectables such as gulab jamun, halwa, and rice kheer. Some savory dishes include samosas stuffed with various vegetables and spices, aloo bonda, and paneer tikhi. These delicious foods foster the cultural spirit and harmony of the festival.

Around Diwali, individuals create rangolis, a beautiful floor design made from rose petals, colored powder, and rice. The tradition of making rangolis not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also brings families together through collaboration and togetherness.

Henna is also a prevalent practice in Indian culture around significant events. It is a brown paste used to create beautiful patterns on bodies, such as locus flowers and peacocks. This practice symbolizes wealth, empowerment, harmony, and growth for those who wear it.

Day-By-Day Breakdown

During the five-day celebration of Diwali, various rituals and traditions are observed, honoring religious deities.

Dhanteras is the first day of Diwali, when individuals purchase extravagant jewelry and household items to invite prosperity. Numerous people clean their homes to welcome the Goddess Lakshmi, who embodies wealth and prosperity in traditional Hindu culture. This day is known to cultivate an atmosphere of gratitude to reflect on the blessings in their lives.

Dhanteras is followed by Choti Diwali the following day, when people commemorate Lord Krishna for his glorious defeat of King Narakasura. They acknowledge this achievement by decorating their homes with diyas, and rangolis. Children often paint clay diyas with bright colors and assist their families as they make their homes a more welcoming environment.

The third day is Lakshmi Puja, during which individuals exchange gifts, feast on baked goods, and worship goddess Lakshmi with loved ones. This day is particularly special as it symbolizes the arrival of prosperity and abundance into homes and hearts.

Padwa marks the fourth day when the relationship between a husband and wife is commemorated. Others observe his day as a chance to worship Lord Krishna, who had historically protected villagers in Vrindavan from adverse weather conditions. This celebration highlights the importance of love and mutual respect in marital and community relationships.

Bhai Dooj is the final day of acknowledging the love between siblings. Sisters adorn their brothers' heads with red paste and pray for their well-being, while brothers buy their sisters a meaningful gift. This exchange of gifts not only strengthens the sibling bond but emphasizes how siblings will always be there for one another, regardless of life's obstacles.

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Modern Shift

Over time, Diwali has evolved from traditional religious practices to more modern observances as our world has advanced.

Diyas, a traditional Indian candle, have now evolved into decorative LED fixtures or electric lights. These alternatives are safer and provide convenience for potential buyers, but have also lessened the cultural essence of the event.

Diwali is notorious for its delectable sweets. However, in recent times, as health awareness has emerged, individuals have celebrated this festival with dietary restrictions. This change in meals has altered the authenticity of Diwali. Food is a pivotal component of a culture, and modifying traditional recipes can diminish the cultural richness or communal experience that food brings to the festival.

Individuals had previously spent days purchasing gifts and delectables out in the market; however, with technological improvements, online shopping has made this commitment easier. This shift, while convenient, has changed the traditional experiences that Diwali offers. The bustling markets and joyful morale of people shopping added to the festive spirit.

Fireworks and firecrackers, often considered the essence of Diwali, have become less popular as people become more environmentally aware of their impacts. Light symbolizes the very core of Diwali, uniting families and promoting togetherness. With its decrease, this festival loses its shared excitement that once united communities.

Conclusion

Diwali has bonded my family closer together through its beautiful cultural practices and traditions. The rituals, the lights, shared meals, and the sense of community have all played a pivotal role in shaping who I am. I have forged memories from this festival that I will cherish for a lifetime.

Photo Credit: Rachel Talwar

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