Celebrating the Hindu Festival of Lights – Diwali

Everyone has a favourite festival to celebrate. Like I already said in my previous post about Durga Puja, majority of Bengalis just can’t wait for Durga Puja to come. Even though I am a Bengali, I have always been more drawn to Diwali. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that I was born on Diwali. 

Anyways, let’s dive in and let me tell you all about this Festival of Lights.

History of Diwali

Now there are 2 variations as to why Diwali is celebrated. 

In northern India, Diwali signifies as the celebration of the return of Ram, Sita and Lakshman from their 14-years exile in the forest. If you are familiar with the Ramayana, you can relate to this more clearly. 

In southern India, Diwali is celebrated because on this day, Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura. I came to know about this just a few months back.

Since I was raised in north Indian cities, I always thought that Diwali was related to Ramayana only. 

But a few months back, while I was having a conversation with a South Indian friend from the office, I came to know that Diwali had a different history in their region. It was a bit of a shocker for me actually. I mean, the same festival, celebrated on the same day, so how come 2 different backstories?

Preparations

Cleaning

One of the most important tasks in any household during Diwali time is cleaning. Every nook and corner is cleaned to the last speck. The curtains are changed, bed sheets are changed, and even sometimes places that might have not been clean for a year would be opened, reorganized, and cleaned. 

Making Rangoli

Do you know what a Rangoli is? It is a giant structure or even a small structure made of colours or flowers. It really is an art to make a beautiful Rangoli. I have tried so many times making one but every time something or the other happens and it is not up to the par. 

There are tons and tons of videos and tutorials on the internet these days. I have seen people make Rangolis of the size of a whole room. Whereas, I can only manage to make one of only a few inches.

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Oh, and if you are not good at making rangolis, like me, you can definitely buy a stencil. ‘wink’

Decorations

Diwali is the festival of lights. So, of course, there has to be decorations of lights. 

People usually put lights, mostly fairy lights, all around their house and also inside their houses. Many also include flower decorations along with the lights. And it really is a wonderful sight to roam on the streets at night during Diwali. I still remember, when I was a kid, I would go out with my friends just to look at all the different lightings done by my neighbours.

Some people also like to stick to the traditions of using diyas. A diya is an oil lamp made of clay. A cotton wick is put inside the diya with oil as a fuel.

I personally love using diyas and candles. They give more of a festive vibe as you need to prepare them and place them on walls and preferred locations.

Sweets

No festival is complete without sweets. At least, not in India. 

My parents would start buying sweets 1-2 days before Diwali. You need to be stocked with sweets at all times. Guests can pop up at any time of the day, so it is better to be prepared. Right? 

This year, my mother prepared two of my favourites for this festival. 

Both are made of just two ingredients. One being jaggery in both of them. And other is coconut for one and moodi (rice flakes) for the other.

Diwali Puja

Most of the festivals in India are associated with a God or a Goddess. Hence, a puja is bound to happen.

Not every, but most of the household holds a puja during an auspicious time, known as a muhurta. All family members sit around the idol and the puja takes place. Either a pandit is called or any family member performs the Diwali puja.

This year, my mom performed the puja with all of us sitting around. It is a special moment as we all are together and festivals are all about spending time with your loved ones.

What to expect when visiting India during Diwali

Lights! More lights! And some more lights!

Streets are filled with houses totally lit. Not lit like on fire, but on lights.

Oh, and fireworks too. Even though many people have now started to opt-out of this way of celebration, but it is still done on a large scale. In many states, selling of fireworks are banned each year. Still, some sellers sell in secret. Like the back of their shops, or garages or they might just take an order from you and even deliver at home.

How to enjoy Diwali to its fullest

If you are visiting India during Diwali, the best way you can enjoy is by staying at a homestay. There is no better option I could think of than to spend the day, and of course night, with an Indian family celebrating this festival. 

You will get to know about all the rituals and go through the efforts of preparing for the puja. Making a Rangoli, lighting up diyas and of course, enjoying homemade sweets. 

Tips

• Wear a mask. During Diwali, fireworks can cause a lot more pollution. It can even get hazy.
• Always be prepared with medicine. With so many sweets and wonderful food, it is no surprise if your stomach aches.
• Greeting someone with “Happy Diwali” instead of “Namaste”