|
Deepavali is a popular Indian festival observed all across its cities with much enthusiasm and zeal. It is also referred to as the festival of lights and is usually celebrated in the month of October or November. During this festival, all the people decorate their homes with beautiful traditional oil lamps and light them to shoo away darkness and open the doors of good luck, happiness, peace and wisdom.
Like other festivals in India, Diwali too has great cultural significance. People belonging to different age groups and background take part in the preparations of this festival with equal excitement. In addition, there are many legends associated with the celebrations of this festival.
The legends say that Diwali puja marks the arrival of Hindu Lord Rama with Sita (wife) and Lakshman (brother), who returned to their home after spending 14 years in the forest. In order to celebrate their return to Ayodhya, all the people in his kingdom fired crackers and lit oil lamps. This belief is much pre-dominant in the northern part of India. However, other communities like Marwaris and Gujaratis worship Hindu Goddess Lakshmi during this time. In West Bengal in India, people celebrate Kali or Durga Puja during this time to mark goddess’s victory over devil Mahishasura.
According to another interesting folklore, there was a demon called Narakasura. He was the ruler of Pradyoshapuram kingdom. He used to torment his subjects and would abduct women to satisfy his malicious intent. To save people from this demon, Lord Krishna killed him and from then onwards the day was observed as Deepawali.
The preparations for this festival start many days in advance with house renovation or cleaning of the work area. During the three-day celebrations, people wear new and costly attires in vibrant shades. Black color is completely avoided, as it is considered very inauspicious. The younger members of the family seek blessings of the elderly people. Some even prefer to visit temples to offer prayers. At night, many people light the oil lamps and burst firecrackers. They also visit the homes of their near and dear ones to celebrate the occasion.
Apart from these, tasty and mouthwatering food is prepared on the final day of Deepawali. Some make sweet delicacies like rice kheer, carrot halwa and besan ka ladoo. Besides, rich items like lentil salads, Vada and Idlis are also cooked.
Last Updated On: 2011/07/04
© Indfy.com. All Rights Reserved.
Webiste Designed, Developed, and Maintained by
Compare Infobase Limited.
Comment