Happy Deepavali 2012
Deepavali (also: Depawali, Dipavali,
Dewali, Diwali, Divali, Dipotsavi, Dipapratipad ) it literally translated means
'Row of Lights' (from Sanskrit: dipa = lamp / awali = row, line). It celebrates
the victory of Goodness over Evil and Light over Darkness - it ushers in the new
year. Especially for this event people are cleaning their houses and wear new
clothes.
Deepavali is a 5 day festival as Dhanteras, Choti Diwali, Badi (Main)
Diwali, Padwa and Bhaiduj. There are many different names for the days of Diwali
in different regions of India (South & North India, East & West India)
and in the different languages spoken in that regions (i.e. Hindi, Urdu, Telugu,
Tamil, Gujarati, Bengali).
During Deepavali people pray to Lakshmi, Goddess of
wealth, light, prosperity and wisdom, but also to Ganesha, the 'Remover of
Obstacles' and the 'Lord of Beginnings'.
Deepavali celebrations take place in many countries in the world. On the first
day of the Deepavali festival people pray and having a special breakfast made of
many different foods. The Hindu Goddess Lakshmi's statue and images are carried
through the streets in processions.
There are various legends and stories
associated with the Deepavali festival. The story of Bali, Emergence of Laxmi,
Krishna Narakasur Fight, Victory of Rama over Ravana and many more. Dipa Lights
(also called Diwali Diyas, Kandils, Ghee Lamps or Parvati Ganesha Lamps) - made
of clay, fueled with Oil from Coconuts, Mustard or Ghee (clarified butter), the
wick made of cotton wool - are placed outside of houses, on floors and doorways.
During Deepavali festival, doorways are hung with torans of mango leaves and
marigolds. Deepavali Melas are being enjoyed by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains &
Buddhists alike. On the day of Deepavali people exchange gifts, bursting
firecrackers, lighting fireworks, colourful sparklers & bonfires and having
festive meals. Diwali Melas (fairs) are held throughout India and the
celebrations abroad. The Indian Festival of Lights takes place after the monsoon
season has finished and the weather is nice and pleasant again.
Wishing
Happy Diwali to everyone! Deepavali Valthukkal!!