by Tanu Bhandari

Created on: October 13, 2009   Last Updated: October 19, 2009

Diwali is known as Festival of Lights, for a reason. The word diwali originates from the word 'deepavali' which means, a row of lights. On Diwali dwellings in every nick and corner, be it a small cottage, apartment, bungalow, hut or a huge mansion, all are glittering. Temples and Market places are dazzling bright even prior to five day long diwali celebration.

According to the ancient hindu epic Ramayana, on Amavasya (new moon night) in the Hindu lunar month of Kartik; the rightful heir to the throne of Ayodhya, Lord Ram returned to his kingdom after fourteen years in exile accompanied by his wife Sita and brother Laxman. During the course of their exile, they lived in dense jungles, away from the luxury of a palace .Lord Ram, an avatar of Lord Vishnu had to free his wife Sita from the clutches of Ravana, the demon king of Lanka.

Diwali marks the return of virtuous Lord Ram to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. The people of Ayodhya gave a warm welcome to their king. The entire city was decorated with lights. This is one of the most popular legends associated with Diwali. Hence the tradition of lighting up residential and commercial complexes on Diwali continues to date.

A very popular catch phrase in the Hindi language, 'ghee ke diye jalana'; literally means to celebrate and make merry. This is exactly what you see on Diwali night, tiny earthen lamp flickering bright in houses. Clay lamps are washed and dried well before use. After dusk ghee(clarified butter) or oil is put in diyas and lit with a cotton wick. Lamps adorn each room, terrace and staircase. A few lamps are placed near the entrance as well.

The twinkling lamps spread light, symbolizing the key message of Diwali: victory of good over evil. Diwali light spreads knowledge and love where there is ignorance and hatred.

Another popular legend of Diwali is associated with Laxmi puja. It is an age-old belief; on Diwali the goddess Laxmi, who is associated with wealth and prosperity, visits our homes. People clean and illuminate their houses in anticipation that Laxmi may shower her blessings on them.

People also use candles along with clay lamps to decorate their house. Candles of various colors, shapes and sizes are available in the market. The rich use multicolored electric blinking lights. Commercial buildings and temple complex are well decorated with electric lights. The latest in the fray is small Chinese-made lights.

Diwali lights and fireworks play a significant role in Diwali celebration and the trend will continue for generations to come. The light of tiny clay lamps, candles, minuscule bulbs and fire-works brighten up the dark Diwali (new moon) night, spreading the message of love and universal brotherhood.

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