Diwali: the festival of lights

Diwali (Deepavali) is the festival of lights, celebrated on the new Moon (Amavasya) at the end of Ashwin, which North Indian calendars call Kartika Amavasya. It is the centre of five festive days.

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The five days

  1. Dhanteras Lakshmi, Kubera and Dhanvantari are worshipped and a lamp is lit for Yama.
  2. Narak Chaturdashi Choti Diwali remembers Krishna’s victory over Narakasura, with an oil bath before sunrise.
  3. Lakshmi Puja On Amavasya, Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are worshipped in the evening and lamps are lit everywhere.
  4. Govardhan Puja Krishna lifting Govardhan hill is remembered with Annakut, a mountain of food offerings.
  5. Bhai Dooj Sisters pray for their brothers’ long life, closing the festival.

Many traditions, one night

For many it marks Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after fourteen years. In Bengal and Assam the same night is Kali Puja. Jains remember Lord Mahavira’s nirvana, and Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas.

When Lakshmi Puja is done

Lakshmi Puja is kept on the evening when Amavasya is current during Pradosh Kaal, after sunset. Many families choose the stable lagna (Vrishabha) within that window. When Amavasya touches the evenings of two days, cities can differ on the date.

Rangoli at the door, rows of diyas and sweets shared with neighbours are common to almost every region.