What is Diwali and how is it celebrated?
                     WHAT IS DIWALI AND 
HOW IS IT CELEBRATED?
Introduction
• Diwali, also known as deepavali, is 
one of the most important and 
widely celebrated festivals in india 
and among hindu communities 
around the world. 
• It is often referred to as the 
"festival of lights" because it 
symbolizes the victory of light over 
darkness and good over evil. 
• Diwali typically lasts for five days, 
with the main celebration occurring 
on the third day. 
• The exact dates of diwali vary each 
Source: 
year, as it is determined by the bathurst.catholic.org.au
hindu lunar calendar.
Significance: 
Diwali holds religious and cultural 
importance in multiple ways. 
It commemorates Lord Rama's return 
to Ayodhya following his victory over 
the demon king Ravana, as told in the 
epic Ramayana. 
Some believe it to be a lucky time to 
ask the blessings of the goddess 
Lakshmi, who is known as the goddess 
of wealth and prosperity.
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Cleaning and Decorating: 
Weeks in advance are usually spent 
getting ready for Diwali. 
To welcome the goddess Lakshmi and 
to create a festive atmosphere, people 
clean and decorate their homes. 
Cleaning, repainting, and adorning 
with vibrant rangoli—delicate floor 
patterns created with colored powders, 
rice, or flower petals—are all included 
in this.
Source: dnaindia.com
Lighting: 
The lighting of candles, electric lights, 
and oil lamps, or diyas, is the most 
recognizable feature of Diwali. 
Numerous lights are used to create a 
breathtaking visual display in homes, 
streets, and public areas.
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Puja: 
During Diwali, families offer a unique 
puja, or prayer. They thank the gods 
for their wealth and prosperity, ask for 
blessings, and offer prayers to the 
deities.
 People visit temples to take part in 
the unique prayers and rituals 
performed there; they are also 
exquisitely decorated..
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Fireworks: 
A significant component of Diwali 
festivities are fireworks. In the 
evening, people shoot off fireworks, 
filling the night sky with vibrant 
displays. 
But in recent years, there have been 
calls for more environmentally friendly 
celebrations due to growing concerns 
about the effects of fireworks on the 
environment and human health.
Source: happydiwali.com
Exchanging Gifts: 
During Diwali, it's customary to give 
and receive gifts.
 Families show their love and goodwill 
to neighbors, friends, and loved ones 
by exchanging gifts, candies, and dry 
fruits.
New Clothes: 
Wearing new clothes on Diwali is a custom. 
To celebrate the holiday, a lot of people sew 
or purchase new clothing for their families 
and themselves.
Source: 
thetimesofindia.com,
                  
zeebusiness.com
Cultural Performances: 
To commemorate Diwali, a variety of 
cultural events and performances, 
such as dance, music, and drama, are 
planned throughout India. 
These occasions frequently highlight 
the area's rich cultural legacy.
Charity: 
Another important aspect of Diwali is 
giving to those in need. 
During the festival, a lot of people and 
organizations donate to the less 
fortunate and support different social 
causes, among other charitable 
endeavors.
Source: innepal.com
Conclusion: 
Diwali is a festival celebrated for its 
joy, community, and contemplation of 
the triumph of good over evil and light 
over darkness. 
The celebration of the triumph of 
righteousness and the light of 
knowledge is the fundamental aspect 
of the festival, although specific 
customs and traditions may differ 
among various communities and 
regions in India.
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devoncatering.com