Diwali Festival in India

Deepawali often called Diwali is among the biggest festivals in Hindu calendar. This is the festival of light. The celebration that takes place goes on throughout the night and people illuminate their houses to celebrate. The mood is indisputably joyous and the light in the night of Diwali symbolizes celebration of life, its enjoyment and goodness of the soul.

The mythological stories regarding the festival of Diwali are many and varied. While some mythological stories tell the tale of the victory of Lord Rama over demon Ravana, other mythological stories tell the tale of the worship of strength in the form of Goddess Kali. Diwali is also celebrated as a festival of harvest. In many parts of the country, the festival marks the emergence of the Goddess of Wealth, Lakshmi. In different regions of India, Diwali has attained different meaning and connotation altogether.

According to traditional beliefs, the festival of light celebrated exactly 20 days after Dussehra marks the home coming of the benevolent ruler of Ayodhya, Lord Rama after killing wicked demon Ravana. The home coming of the favorite son of the soil is marked with celebration and light.

Through out northern India, the celebration takes place in a grand scale. Thousands of tourists come in this time of the year to see and partake in the celebration. Houses are lit up and you will see streets decorated with colorful lamps. Shops and restaurants are decorated wonderfully and without doubt whole of north India wears a festive look.

In the eastern part of India, Diwali is celebrated as Kali Puja and Lakshmi Puja. Goddess Kali is the symbol of strength. The Goddess is worshipped at the middle of the night of Diwali. People also worship Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth. The merriment continue through the night and fireworks lit up the night sky. For the people, this is an occasion to celebrate with family and friends.

At the time of Diwali, people make brisk business. Diwali gifts are a must and people spend a lot of time and money buying gifts for family members and friends. The celebration has become so beautiful and attractive that Diwali has become a tourist attraction in itself.