Professional Studies

CA1- DIWALI INTERCULTURAL EVENT

Evin Quigley – G00383748

Lecture: Dr Pauline Logue

Diwali Festival

(Festival of lights)

What is Diwali?

Diwali, also known as Dipawali, is India's largest and most important holiday. The festival
derives its name from the row (avali) of clay lamps (deepa) that Indians light outside their
homes to represent the inner light that protects against spiritual darkness. This festival is
just as significant to Hindus as Christmas is to Christians(MCKeever, 2022). The five days of
Diwali are marked by prayer, feasts, fireworks, family gatherings, and charitable giving for
over a billion people from various faiths across India and its diaspora. For some, Diwali
marks the start of a new year(MCKeever, 2022).

The meaning of Diwali:

The meaning of Diwali is “row of lights” (Duignan, 2020). Even though Diwali is celebrated
over the darkest night during the darkest period, it is a celebration of light good over
evil(Matharu, 2020). The significance of Diwali, its symbols and rituals, and the reasons for
celebration are numerous. Diwali commemorates Lord Rama's glorious and long-awaited
return to his kingdom of Ayodhya after fourteen years in exile in the forests. It
commemorates Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakaasura, who had kidnapped
and terrorized the gopis of Vrindavan. It is also remembered as the day Bhagwan Vishnu
married Maha Lakshmi. Diwali is also associated with the legend of Bali, a demon king who
was defeated by Lord Vishnu. In general, Diwali represents the triumph of good over evil, of
righteousness over treachery, of truth over falsehood, and of light over darkness (Matharu,
2020).

How Diwali is celebrated:

Diwali is celebrated over a period of five days. Each of the different days of Diwali have their
own names. The five days of Diwali are as follows:
 Dhanteras: People would carry out rituals known as puja or pooja on the first day of
Diwali, install tea lights around their homes' balconies or entranceways, and buy
culinary utensils, which are said to bring good fortune. (Chon, 2021)
 Narak Chaturdashi: People will spend a lot of time at home and exchange sweets
with friends and family on this day, which is celebrated in varied ways depending on
the location. Additionally, they would use rangolis complex designs created from
coloured powder, rice, and flowers to adorn the flooring of their house. (Chon, 2021)
 Lakshmi Puja: The major festival is thought to be the most fortunate day to honour
the goddess, Lakshmi. Families will put on their best attire and assemble for a prayer
in her honour, which is typically followed by a sumptuous feast, breath-taking
fireworks displays, and more celebrations. (Chon, 2021)
 Govardhan Puja: The day after is known as Govardhan Puja and is devoted to Lord
Krishna. 56 different vegetarian dishes and beverages are presented to Lord Krishna
by worshippers as a token of appreciation. (N.d, 2021) finalising
 Bhai Dooj: Or Bhau Beej are the names for the last day. It is referred to as Bhai
Phonta in the east. Siblings join on this day to perform the tikka ritual, exchange
presents, treats, and blessings as a way of expressing their affection for one another.
(N.d, 2021)

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed

Bibliography

Chon, M. (2021, Augest 11). What to Know About Diwali, and How It's Celebrated. Retrieved from
Oprah Daily : https://www.oprahdaily.com/life/a34520345/diwali-celebrations/

Duignan, B. (2020, November 6). Diwali. Retrieved from Britannica :

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Diwali-Hindu-festival

Matharu, A. (2020, April 24). What is true meaning of Diwali? Retrieved from
https://blog.ajaymatharu.com/true-meaning-of-diwali/

MCKeever, A. (2022, October 11). Diwali is India’s most important holiday—and a celebration of
good over evil. Retrieved from National Geographic :
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/diwali-history-customs-indian-festival-
of-lights

N.d. (2021, October 27). From Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj, here's how the five days of Diwali are
celebrated. Retrieved from Hindustan Times:
https://www.hindustantimes.com/photos/lifestyle/from-dhanteras-to-bhai-dooj-here-s-
how-the-five-days-of-diwali-are-celebrated-101635330450786.html