Diwali represents joy, prosperity, and the triumph of good over evil.
Known as Diwali or Deepavali, this celebration is the largest Hindu festival in the world. It roughly translates to row of lightsand is known as the Festival of Lights.
Diwali Festival of Lights is October 30[/tweetthis]
Diwali represents joy, prosperity, and the triumph of good over evil. The festival spans four days and each of them are represented by a different story or tale.
The first day, Naraka Chaturdasi, represents the vanquishing of the demon Naraka, sent away by Lord Kirshna and Satyabhama.
The second day, Amavasya, marks the worship of the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi. It also pays tribute to the story of Lord Vishnu who destroyed the tyrant Bali, banishing him to hell.
On the third day, Katrika Shudda Padyami, Bali steps out of hell and rules the earth again upon instruction of Lord Vishnu.
The fourth and final day, Yama Dvitiya or Bhai Dooj, is the day where sisters invite their brothers to their homes.
During the celebration, lights and firecrackers will be seen in abundance. The light is a sign of obedience to the heavens for good fortune. The firecrackers are believed to be the sound of joy coming from people living on earth, calling out to the gods.
Diwali – Festival of Lights http://t.co/yYTxQttnf4 #Wisdom #quotes pic.twitter.com/NFw266b8LE
— Tom Benson (@8wordsofwisdom) March 20, 2015
Gambling as a tradition is also celebrated during Diwali. It is a tale that the Goddess Parvati and her husband Lord Shiva played dice, and decreed that whoever gambled on Diwali would prosper throughout the next year.
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In each of the days in Diwali represented by stories, the significance lies in good triumphing over evil. With each passing year the festival and the lights illuminates the homes and spirits of the Hindu. The sounds of joy, celebration, and firecrackers fills India. Diwali is also celebrated outside of India; globally, it is a time to celebrate South-Asian identities.