RITUALS rituals involve a series of actions

that are repeated

are observed almost religiously because, in
most cases, they have a religious backing

Ÿ Celebrating Guru Nanak’s return to Punjab -

For Sikhs, the Diwali story tells the story of the
Sikh struggle for freedom. This ritual
commemorates the liberation of Guru Nanak
from the Gwalior Fort. Sikhs refer to this ritual
as Bandi Chhor Diwas, which is observed by
lighting diyas in homes and gurudwaras,
setting off the fireworks, exchanging gifts, and
enjoying a feast.

Ÿ Flinging firecrackers at each other in Gujarat -

In the diwali narrative, fireworks and
firecrackers are said to symbolize the
celebration of Lord Rama’s victory over the
demon king Ravana and his return.Evil spirits
are also believed to be banished by it.

Ÿ Summoning forefathers in Odisha - The stem

called as 'Kaunria' of the jute plant is lit during
Diwali as a mark of respect to forefathers. This
ritual aims to seek the blessings of their
ancestors who are believed to be alive in
 heaven after their mortal bodies died on Earth.

Ÿ Lighting lamps for Lord Yama in Maharashtra -

This ritual involves burning of specially
kneaded flour diyas to honor Lord Yama also
known as the Hindu god of death. Maharashtra
women also light diyas for each name of male
family members to wish them a prosperous
life.
Ÿ Offering food around paddy fields in Karnataka
- On the first day of Diwali in Karnataka, people
bathe and smear their bodies with coconut oil
to 'free' themselves from sin. On the same day,
a rite called Balipadyami is held wherein
farmers rejoice and make offerings around
their paddy fields as a part of the ritual.

Shankar, S. (2022). 10 Unique Diwali Rituals in

Different Parts of
India. https://www.savaari.com/blog/unique-
diwali-rituals-india/

TRADITIONS similar in that beliefs or

behaviors are passed down, with cultural
significance tied to the past

House cleaning
- Cleaning and decluttering the home before
Diwali is a long-standing tradition in India. It is
believed that the goddess Lakshmi will only
enter a clean house. This includes not just
dusting but also painting and redecorating,
depending on one's budget.

• Shopping
- Before Diwali, women in traditional families
shop for new clothes to wear on each day of
celebration. Men also dress in traditional kurtas
or dhoti, but women particularly enjoy showing
off their new wardrobe during this time. It is a
way to show respect and excitement for the
festivity.

• Diwali sweets
- Diwali is celebrated with sweet treats made
from dry fruits
such as chakli, peda, barfi, and laddoo.

• Rangoli
- People decorate their homes with colorful
rangoli designs made from rice powder during
the five-day festival. This is a way to bring in
the festive spirit.

• Exchanging gifts and playing cards

- Diwali is marked by the exchange of gifts and
colorful rangoli designs. Families gather to
celebrate with fun and games, reuniting after
long periods of separation.

Mukherjee, A. (2019) 5 diwali customs and

traditions you should know about. Culture Trip.
https://theculturetrip.com/asia/india/articles/5-
diwali-customs-and-traditions-you-should-
know-about