It usually occurs in October/November, and is one of the most popular and eagerly awaited festivals of India.
All the simple rituals of Diwali have a significance and story to tell. The illumination of homes with lights and the skies with firecrackers is an expression of obeisance to the heavens for the attainment of health, wealth, knowledge, peace and prosperity. According to one belief, the sound of fire-crackers are an indication of the joy of the people living on earth, making the gods aware of their plentiful state.
Diwali, a diminutive form of Deepavali, etymologically means a row of lights 'Deep'- light and 'Avali'-a row. Hence it is festival of lights. The name Diwali originates from a tradition involving lighting small ceramic oil lamps, called diyas. Indian communities float diyas in rivers and streams and place them outside temples. In Indian homes, diyas are placed indoors and outdoors, on verandas and rooftops and in courtyards and gardens.
Diwali Customs and Traditions
Diwali is a time to light up 'diyas' in and around the house, and kindle the dark, moonless night-sky with dazzling display of fireworks. It is a time to rejoice, time to go berserk. It is also a time to put on new things, time for exchanging gifts and greetings and wishing each other. It is time for the children to seek the blessings of the elderly and for the elderly to bless the children profusely.
Diwali is also time of transition from darkness unto light - the light that empowers us to commit ourselves to good deeds and which brings us closer to divinity. And hence it is time to keep at bay all parochial interests and fling open all the doors of our mind so that it is a-washed thoroughly by the lights of joy and righteousness.
Fresh flowers and freshly cleaned homes welcome the days of Diwali. Many families draw a colorful Rangoli, a decorative pattern made in rice flour, at the entrance of the home. Friends, family, and neighbors visit to share feasts and festivities as well as little treats such as khil (rice puffs) and patashe (sugar disks). Puja, worship of deities, takes place at home and at temples with prayers and other offerings.
Diwali also marks the beginning of a new financial year. Households and businesses begin new accounting in new ledgers, which are often decorated with images of Lakshmi. The goddess of fortune, she is the main deity honored during Diwali.
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