For Hindus around the world, Diwali is an important time of connecting with the Divine, celebrating knowledge, expressing gratitude for life and all that we have been given, spending time with loved ones, eating delicious food, wearing new clothes, and celebrating with fireworks! Diwali is not only a popular festival for Hindus – Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists also celebrate the day. For Sikhs, the festival is also known as Bandi Chhor Divas.
Rangoli
During Diwali it is very popular to decorate and beautify the entrance to homes, shops and other places with colorful intricate designs made from rice paste, colored flour, dry grains or flowers. These temporary drawings, variously referred to as alpana, kolam or rangoli, range from simple to ornate. They represent the happiness, positivity and liveliness of a household, and are intended to welcome Ma Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity.
Puja
A Sanskrit term referencing Hindu worship rituals, the puja ceremony is central to how Hindus celebrate Diwali, with special prayers offered to Ma Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity as well as Sri Ganesh, the God of new beginnings and the remover of obstacles. While pujas differ widely, on Diwali, lighting a diya is an important part of the Puja as it signifies purity, goodness, good luck and power.
Food and Feasting
Like any festival, Diwali is a time when families get together for fun and feasts. The preparation of special savory snacks and sweets (mithai) often starts days before. The dishes cooked for Diwali vary widely depending on traditions from various regions of India, as well as the customs of individual households. Often, some of the food prepared may first be offered to the Divine before being consumed, turning it into “prasad.” Diwali is the perfect time to cook and share treats with loved ones!
Fireworks
The night of Diwali often reverberates with the bursting of firecrackers. It’s an important and joyous tradition that brings the community together to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness – one that is especially enjoyed by the children of the community.
Symbols associated with Diwali
