Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most ancient and significant celebrations in Indian culture. Spanning five days, it marks the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
What Does "Diwali" Mean?
Etymology
Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word "Deepavali":
- • Deepa = Light/Lamp
- • Avali = Row/Series
- • Meaning: "Row of Lights"
Ancient Origins & Legends
1. Lord Rama's Return to Ayodhya
The most popular legend comes from the Ramayana. After 14 years of exile and defeating demon king Ravana, Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya with Sita and Lakshmana. The citizens of Ayodhya lit thousands of clay lamps (diyas) to welcome their beloved king, creating the first Diwali celebration.
Symbolism
2. Goddess Lakshmi's Birth
According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Lakshmi (deity of wealth and prosperity) emerged from the ocean of milk (Samudra Manthan) on the new moon day of Kartik month. This is why Lakshmi Puja is the main ritual of Diwali.
3. Lord Krishna Defeats Narakasura
Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura, who had imprisoned 16,000 daughters of gods and saints. Their release is celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi, the day before main Diwali.
The 5 Days of Diwali
Day 1: Dhanteras
Buy gold, silver, utensils. Worship Lord Dhanvantari. Most auspicious day for purchases!
Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi
Oil bath before sunrise, light lamps. Celebrate Krishna's victory over Narakasura.
Day 3: Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali)
THE main day! Lakshmi Puja in evening, light diyas, fireworks, family gatherings!
Day 4: Govardhan Puja
Worship Govardhan mountain, prepare 56 dishes (Chhappan Bhog).
Day 5: Bhai Dooj
Sisters apply tilak on brothers' foreheads, pray for their well-being.
Spiritual Significance
Light Over Darkness
Diyas symbolize the victory of knowledge and wisdom over ignorance.
Good Over Evil
Celebrates multiple victories of good over evil forces in Hindu mythology.
Prosperity & Wealth
Worship of Lakshmi invites wealth, fortune, and success for the coming year.
New Beginnings
Marks the start of new year for many Indian communities and businesses.
Modern Celebrations
Traditional Items for Diwali Celebrations

MIRADH Icicle Diwali Lights Outdoor, 10ft 96 LED with 16 Drops Icicle Lights, Plug in Lights with 8 Modes Waterproof for Decoartion Light for Diwali, Christmas, Birthday, Ganesh Puja (Warm White)

Desidiya® Water Sensor Diya Shape Diwali Night Lights Flameless & Smokeless LED Lights Warm Ambient Night Light for Diwali Festivals Decoration, New Year Home Decor/Mandir Decoration, Pack of 6

Gesto 80 Diya Curtain Lights – Multicolor Fairy Lights with 8 Modes Controller | AC Powered Diya Lights for Home,Balcony,Mandir,Pooja Room,Diwali Decoration,Festival Decor & Hanging Lights (10 x 3 Ft)

Gesto Copper Serial String Lights,14 LED Diwali Diya,10 Feet Warm White Fairy Lights for Home,Mandir,Pooja Room,Deepawali & Diwali Decoration,Christmas,Festival,Indoor & Outdoor Decorative Lights

Gesto Diwali Diya Neon Sign Strip lights - LED Neon Strip Rope Lights for Home Decor | IP65 Waterproof Neon Signs For Diwali Decoration,Deepawali,Mandir Decoration,Pooja Room Light, Indoor Outdoor | Electric AC Plug (Warm White)
