Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a festival celebrated by millions of people, particularly in India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Known as the "Festival of Lights," Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. While the core essence of Diwali remains the same across the region, the way it is celebrated can vary across South Asia.
history & significance
Diwali has deep religious significance in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism, with each faith offering its own interpretation of the festival. For Hindus, Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom of Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, marking the triumph of good over evil. For Jains, Diwali celebrates the spiritual awakening and enlightenment of Lord Mahavira, while Sikhs observe Diwali as the day Guru Hargobind Ji was released from imprisonment, symbolizing freedom and justice.
Despite these differences, the central theme of Diwali is one of renewal, hope, and the triumph of light, represented by the lighting of oil lamps (diyas) and the bursting of fireworks.
traditions & rituals
Diwali is typically celebrated over five days, with each day having its own significance. Families clean and decorate their homes with colorful rangolis (intricate designs made from colored powders or flowers) and diyas to welcome prosperity and dispel negativity. On the main day of Diwali, families perform Lakshmi Puja, praying to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, to bless their homes with abundance.
One of the most iconic elements of Diwali is the lighting of fireworks and the exchange of sweets and gifts. Fireworks symbolize the celebration of Lord Rama's return and the defeat of darkness, while the sharing of sweets like ladoos, barfis, and jalebis represents the joy and community spirit of the festival.
diversity in rituals across South Asia
While Diwali is celebrated with great fervor across South Asia, the specific customs and rituals vary by region, reflecting local traditions and cultural influences.
India: In the northern states of India, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama, and homes are lit with diyas, while fireworks light up the night sky. In cities like Jaipur and Varanasi, public spaces and temples are adorned with lights and decorations. In the south, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Diwali, or Deepavali, is celebrated as the day Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura, and families rise early to take ritual oil baths and wear new clothes. In Gujarat and Maharashtra, the festival coincides with the new year, and Annakut, a grand feast of food offerings, is prepared for the deities. In Bengal the goddess Kali is worshipped. For Sikhs who celebrate Diwali, the festival coincides with the commemoration of an event in 1619 when 52 political prisoners were held by the Mughals. Bandi Shor Divas, which translates to “prison break”, occurred just days before Diwali when Guru Hargobind freed himself as well as 52 other political prisoners. Upon returning to the city of Amritsar, the group was met by candles and lamps lighting their way. For sikhs the festival celebrates the prevail of moral right over moral wrong. For Jains, Diwali celebrates Lord Mahavira achieving moksha and breaking the cycle of reincarnation.
Nepal: In Nepal, Diwali is known as Tihar and lasts five days. While it shares similarities with Indian Diwali, Tihar has unique traditions, such as honoring animals like cows, dogs, and crows. The festival is also linked to the worship of Lakshmi, with homes decorated with diyas and rangolis. On the last day, brothers and sisters exchange gifts in a ritual called Bhai Tika, symbolizing the bond of love and protection between siblings.
Sri Lanka: In Sri Lanka, Diwali is mainly celebrated by the Tamil Hindu population. The festival is marked by lighting lamps, bursting fireworks, and sharing traditional sweets. Temples are decorated, and families gather to perform puja, seeking blessings for prosperity and happiness. In Sri Lanka, Diwali is also a time for charity, with many offering food and clothing to those in need.
Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, & Other Diaspora Communities: In countries with large South Asian diasporas, such as Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana, Diwali is a vibrant celebration that blends traditional Indian customs with local culture. In Trinidad, Diwali Nagar, a large cultural event, showcases Indian music, dance, food, and religious rituals, allowing the wider community to experience the festival. Fireworks, prayers, and feasts are central to these celebrations, just as they are in South Asia.
Diwali sweets & special foods
Food plays an essential role in Diwali, with a variety of sweets and savory dishes prepared for the occasion. Some of the most beloved treats include:
Sweets: Ladoos, barfis, gulab jamun, kaju katli, and jalebi are some of the most popular sweets exchanged among families and friends during Diwali.
Snacks: Savory snacks like chakli, mathri, and namak pare are also prepared to balance out the sweetness and are often served alongside tea to guests.
Regional specialties: In Gujarat, ghughra (sweet dumplings filled with coconut and nuts) are a Diwali favorite, while in Maharashtra, shankarpali (sweet, crunchy fried dough) is popular. In Tamil Nadu, traditional dishes like murukku and athirasam are made for the occasion.
a time of togetherness & gratitude
Diwali is a time for families to gather, communities to unite, and friendships to be renewed. Regardless of where Diwali is observed, its message remains universal: to spread light, peace, and prosperity, and to celebrate the ties that bind people together.
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