Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is the most widely observed Hindu festival. Here are the reasons as to why is Diwali celebrated? Apart from Hindus, the festival is also observed by Sikhs and Jains.
Victory Over Ignorance
- Diwali is known as the ‘Festival of Lights’ - it refers to the rows of earthen lamps celebrants place around their homes. Diwali light symbolizes the victory of knowledge over ignorance, and goodness over evil. It further represents an awareness of God in our lives.
Victory of Good over Evil
- The popular legend in Hinduism associated with Diwali marks the day when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya, the capital of his kingdom, from a forced exile after defeating Ravana, the ultimate force of evil, in His time. His return symbolically represents the return of Dharma – peace, goodness, prosperity and happiness.
- In South India, Diwali is also believed to be the day when Lord Krishna annihilated Demon Narakasura and restored Dharma.
Sikhs
- In addition to Hindus, Sikhs celebrate Diwali in commemoration of the release of the Sixth Guru, Hargobind, from captivity by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir.
Jains
- Jains recognize Diwali as the day Lord Mahavira, the last of the Tirthankaras, attained Nirvana, or liberation, after his death in 527 BCE.