Today marks Diwali, the festival of lights, one of the most significant celebrations in the Hindu calendar. The festival falls on the Chaturdashi day of the dark fortnight in the month of Ashwin (seventh month of the Hindu lunar calendar), a time also known as Narak Chaturdashi. Symbolically, the light of Diwali is believed to dispel the darkness of ignorance and bring spiritual awakening.

 Mythological connections

Diwali is associated with a range of religious traditions, deities, and stories. Many Hindus believe the festival commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana and rescuing Sita, accompanied by his brother Lakshmana.

The festival also honours Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, and Ganesha, the god of wisdom and remover of obstacles. In various regions, Diwali is linked to other deities such as Vishnu, Krishna, Durga, Shiva, Kali, Hanuman, Kubera, Yama, Yami, Dhanvantari, and Vishwakarma, each tradition adding its own cultural richness.

Observances across faiths

Though primarily a Hindu festival, Diwali is celebrated across faiths. Jains observe it as the day of Mahavira’s nirvana (liberation). Sikhs mark the occasion as Bandi Chhor Divas, celebrating Guru Hargobind’s release from Mughal captivity. Among Newar Buddhists, Diwali includes the worship of Lakshmi, while Hindus in eastern India and Bangladesh honour Kali during this period.

Festivities and celebrations

Throughout the festival, homes, temples, and workplaces are illuminated with oil lamps and lanterns. Ritual oil baths are performed at dawn, and colourful rangoli designs adorn courtyards and doorsteps.

Celebrations often include fireworks, feasting, and the exchange of sweets, marking joy, renewal, and gratitude. Families and communities come together for festive meals, events, and gatherings. In many towns and cities, public parades, cultural performances, and fairs add to the vibrancy of the season.

Beyond the festivities, Diwali is also a time for reflection and remembrance, as people honour their ancestors and express gratitude for the year gone by.