Date varies: Divali (Hindu festival of lights)

Divali, also known as Diwali, is a Hindu festival of lights that is celebrated all over the world. While the exact date of Divali varies each year, it usually falls between mid-October to mid-November. This vibrant and joyous festival is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists. Divali is a five-day festival filled with lights, fireworks, gift-giving, and delicious food. It is a time to celebrate the victory of good over evil and the triumph of light over darkness.

The date of Divali is determined by the Hindu lunar calendar, which is different from the Gregorian calendar.

According to the Hindu calendar, Divali falls on the day of ‘Amavasya’ or the new moon day.

This means that the exact date of Divali varies each year, but it usually falls in October or November.

Divali is celebrated on the 15th day of the Hindu month of Kartik.

In the western calendar, the date of Divali usually falls between mid-October to mid-November.

The five-day celebration of Divali begins with ‘Dhanteras’, when people clean their homes and buy new items.

This is followed by ‘Chhoti Divali’ where people decorate their homes with lights and rangolis.

The third day is Divali, where families gather together for prayers, light diyas (oil lamps), and set off fireworks.

The fourth day is known as ‘Govardhan Puja’, which celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over Indra, the god of rain.

Finally, the fifth day is ‘Bhai Dooj’, where brothers and sisters come together to celebrate their bond.

In addition to the religious significance, Divali is also a time for family gatherings and cultural celebrations.

Homes and streets are decorated with lights, candles, and colourful rangolis.

Fireworks light up the night sky and delicious traditional food is served.

One popular custom during Divali is the giving of gifts to loved ones, friends, and neighbours.

The most common traditional gifts during Divali are sweets, dry fruits, and decorative items.

Another important aspect of Divali is the lighting of diyas and candles, which symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

The story behind this symbolism is the return of Lord Rama from his exile and his defeat of the demon king Ravana.

People also believe that Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, visits homes that are well-lit and clean.

Thus, Divali is also considered an auspicious time for business and financial endeavors.

Aside from the religious and cultural aspects, Divali also has a profound impact on the environment.

The use of fireworks during the festival results in air and noise pollution, which can have detrimental effects on both humans and animals.

As an alternative, many people opt for eco-friendly and noiseless celebrations, such as lighting diyas and using natural dyes for rangolis.

In conclusion, Divali is a beautiful and significant festival that brings light, joy, and togetherness to people of all backgrounds.

Although its exact date may vary, the spirit and traditions of Divali remain the same.

It is a time to celebrate good over evil, light over darkness, and love over hate.

So this year, let us all celebrate Divali with awareness, respect, and love for each other and our planet.

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