Diwali

Diwali

Diwali (pronunciation: dɪˈwɑːliː), also known as Deepavali (deepa-āvali), is a major Hindu festival celebrated by millions of people across the world. The term Diwali is derived from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, which means "row of lights".

Etymology

The word Diwali is a contraction of Deepavali, which translates into "row of lamps". The term is derived from the Sanskrit words deepa meaning "light" or "lamp" and avali meaning "row" or "line".

Observance

Diwali is celebrated over five days in the Hindu month of Kartika, which falls between October and November in the Gregorian calendar. The festival is associated with several major events in Hindu mythology, most notably the return of Lord Rama after 14 years of exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana.

Traditions

Traditions of Diwali vary widely depending on region and community, but generally include cleaning and decorating homes with lamps and Rangoli, exchanging gifts, feasting on special foods, and lighting fireworks. The festival is also a time for spiritual reflection and worship, particularly of the goddess Lakshmi, who is associated with wealth and prosperity.

Significance

Diwali is a significant festival in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. For Hindus, it is a celebration of light over darkness and good over evil. For Jains, it marks the attainment of moksha or nirvana by Mahavira. For Sikhs, it celebrates the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib and 52 other princes from prison in 1619.

This WikiMD.org article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.