Introduction

India is the land of celebration and festivity these two are singularly reflected one festival and that is Diwali. Diwali is the most significant festival that is celebrated across the country with equal enthusiasm and zeal. It is celebrated by one and all barring religion, cast and creed. The festival falls in the month of October – November every year. According to the Hindu Lunar calendar, it is observed on the no – moon day i.e. “Amavashya” of Kartik month. Festivity is at its height on this day with people decorating their home and surroundings. The night is commemorated with Lakshmi Puja and burning of fire crackers.

Legend Associated with Diwali

Diwali is the abbreviation of Sanskrit word 'Deepavali' means 'rows of lights'. Diwali was first time celebrated by the people of Ayodhya when Lord Ram, Sita and Lakhsman returned his kingdom after 14 year of exile. Ram was the first son of Dashratha; the king of Ayodhya. He was to be ascended to the throne by his father but was put to exile by the king himself as he had to keep a promise given to his third wife Kakayee. Kind Dahratha was very fond of his third wife who wanted her son Bharat to become the King of Ayodhya. She asked him to fulfill his promised he once gave to the queen. Kakayee asked for his son to become the kings and Ram to be exiled. Ram along with his wife Sita and brother Laksham was banished to the Jungle for 14 longs year. In the course of exile the Demon King of Lanka- Ravana kidnapped Sita. A fierce battle between the Ram and Ravana took place, where Ram along with his army of Monkeys won the battle after slaying Demon Ravana. This famous battle is symbolized as the war of Truth and Evil where ultimately the Truth won the battle represented by Prince Ram. Ram returned to his kingdom Ayodhya on this day and this event is commemorated in the festival of Diwali. Another legend is that Krishna killed Narakasura who represented the dark force on this day. The lighting of Diyas symbolizes the end of that darkness.

Celebration

The euphoria of the festival starts to build up a week ahead of the day. Child, young and old very body is in the mood of festivity. People clean up their home and surroundings; decorate them with various accessories to make them look attractive. On the day devotees keep fast and a lavish Lakshmi and Ganesh Puja is performed in every home. People illuminate their home with innumerable lamps, Diyas, candles and electric bulbs. Gourmet recipes are prepared and enjoyed with the loved ones and friends. Everybody dress up in new clothes and exchanges sweets, dry fruits, gifts and good wishes with each other. Diwali holds a significant importance for the business community as this is also traditionally liked with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi who is the deity of wealth and prosperity. The most important and attractive aspect of this festival is the celebration with firecrackers. Thus, Diwali symbolizes the victory of righteousness and the lifting of spiritual darkness. It is the celebration of victory of good over evil - and the glory of light.