Festival of Lights

Diwali is traditionally known as the "festival of lights", for the common practice is to light small oil lamps (called diyas) and place them around the home, in courtyards, gardens, verandahs, on the walls built around the home and also on the roof tops.

The word Diwali is derived from the word Deepavali that means "a row of lights". This suggests that it is a festival of light and illumination. The festival falls on the last day of the last month of lunar calendar. Diwali is celebrated for five days. The uniqueness of this festival is its harmony of five varied philosophies, with each day to a special thought.

Many reasons can be attributed for the use of Diyas in Diwali. Lamp or "Deep" is the symbol of knowledge. Lighting the lamp of knowledge within us means to understand and reflect upon the significant purpose of each of the five days of festivities and to bring those thoughts in to our day to day lives.The lighting of lamps is a form of obeisance to god for the attainment of health, wealth, knowledge, peace and fame. Mythology says Diyas are used to celebrate the occasion of Lord Rama's return from exile.

Another legend says lighting of lamps symbolizes the spiritual light pervading the earth and the destruction of darkness and ignorance. According to another story the people of Dwaraka greeted Lord Krishna with illumination and rejoicing in honour of his victory over Narakasura. The darkness of the Chaturdasi night compelled them to use many lamps on the occasion, and subsequently the illumination became a part of this celebration.

Deepavali is a festival where people from all age groups participate. Irrespective of their religious and economic background, the festival is celebrated throughout the country to ward off the darkness and welcome light into life, as light is always associated with hope for the future. They give expression to their happiness by lighting earthen 'diyas' (lamps), decorating the houses, bursting firecrackers and inviting near and dear ones to their households for partaking in a sumptuous feast. Because of the Diwali Diyas , lights, fireworks, and sweets involved, it's a great favorite with children.

Nowadays electric lights and candles have been a good replacement for traditional Diyas. They are available in attractive designs and patterns.