Diwali The Festival of Lights

Diwali is the biggest Hindu festival celebrated in India; it is the festival of lights, illumination, shine, and knowledge.

- Shivi Krishna and Purvi Talreja

It is celebrated in the month of Kartika, between October and November, according to the Hindu calendar.

Diwali is also known as "Deepavali." They are derived from the Sanskrit words "Dipa," which means "lamp, light, lantern, candle," and "Vali," which means "row or series of lights." Diwali is the festival of light, celebrating the victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. Some historical references link it to an ancient legend with this theme, with one of the most common saying it is the goddess Lakshmi's birthday on the new moon. Diwali is a five-day celebration. The "Badi

Diwali" or the main day of celebration is observed on "Amavasya," the day of the new moon. It is said that the day of Amavasya is believed to be the darkest night of the Hindu calendar. The festival begins two days before Amavasya and advances two days after. The day before Diwali is called "Choti Diwali" and the day before Choti Diwali is called "Dhanteras."

 There are many reasons why Diwali is celebrated, and much religious significance is related to it. The religious significance and tradition vary from region to region. Let us understand the many reasons and stories related to Diwali and why people celebrate this auspicious festival.

Diwali is linked to the return of Lord Rama, the avatar (descent) of Lord Vishnu, his wife Sita and his brother Lakshman after defeating the demon King Ravana and fourteen years in exile in the Hindu epic Ramayana.

Another reason why we celebrate Diwali is related to the Dwapara Yuga where Lord Krishna, also an avatar of Lord Vishnu killed the demon Narakasura of Pragjyotishapura and released sixteen thousand girls held captive by the evil king. The day Lord Krishna killed Narakasura is celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi.