Many people immediately think of Halloween and Christmas when it comes to winter holidays, but in Hindu culture there’s another major winter holiday that can’t be missed – Diwali. Diwali is also known as the festival of lights, and is celebrated by millions of people around the world. This year it falls on October 27th, 2019. Find out more in All About Diwali!
Little clay lamps called diyas are lit during Diwali
What is Diwali? 5e234r
Diwali originated in lamps called "diyas" around their homes to represent the victory of good over evil and to invite good luck and prosperity from the Hindu Goddess Lakshmi and the God Ganesh, who represents good luck, wealth and enlightenment.
Elaborate lights are set up in homes for Diwali
How to Celebrate 4f5u5k
For Hindus this is one of the most important days of the year, and it involves spending time with fruit, rice pudding, flowers and other assorted gifts. To offer these goods the family performs a “puja,” which involves saying sacred words and singing. Unlike Western holidays, it’s also considered very important to refrain from eating meat and drinking alcohol in honor of the divine spirits being invited into your home.
On Diwali you make offerings to Lakshmi and Ganesh for wealth and good luck
Traditionally every home will set out tiny clay pots with wicks and oil all around their home, and in places where Diwali is a national holiday public places are also lit up with lots of beautiful candles and lamps. Some families exchange gifts and make a big dinner for family and friends
Diwali Fun Facts! 3f12a
- Diwali is a national holiday in India, Trinidad & Tobago, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Guyana, Surinam, Singapore, Malaysia and Fiji.
- Diwali is the beginning of the financial year for Indian businesses.
- Diwali marks the end of the harvest season in India.
- The word Diwali means “the row of lighted lamps (diyas)” in Hindi.
- The festival signifies the victory of light over darkness.
- It is the most famous, biggest and brightest festival of India, and is celebrated for five days.
Diwali is known as the festival of lights
Have Your Say 524a4n
Do you celebrate Diwali? Let us know in the comments section below.
