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    Diwali EB

    What Is Diwali: A Complete Guide to the Festival of Lights

    Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is the most radiant and joyful festival in Indian culture and Hinduism. Known as the Festival of Lights, it marks the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is not just a day, it’s a five-day celebration filled with family, food, rituals, and vibrant décor, with a focus on prayer and spirituality.
     
    Whether you're focusing on prayer and traditions, gathering with loved ones, or simply making your home festive while hosting a party, or shopping for gifts, here’s your complete guide to what Diwali means, how it’s celebrated, and what you’ll need to make it special.


    What is Diwali?

    Diwali is one of the most cherished and widely celebrated festivals in India, observed by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists, each with their own interpretations and historical significance.
     
    Despite varied traditions, Diwali holds a unifying message - light conquers darkness, truth overcomes lies, and good always prevails over evil. It is both a spiritual and social celebration, bringing families and communities together to honour these values. Homes and temples are illuminated, prayers are offered, and people take time to reflect on inner growth, gratitude, and renewal. At its heart, Diwali is a time to invite peace, prosperity, and positive energy into our lives, making it one of the most meaningful and uplifting times of the year.

     

    Diwali EC

    The Five Days of Diwali

    Each day of Diwali carries its own meaning and customs:

    1. Dhanteras – A day for cleaning, decorating, and shopping for gold and silver, utensils, and festive items.
    2. Choti Diwali (Naraka Chaturdashi) – The celebration of Krishna’s victory over evil.
    3. Diwali (Lakshmi Puja) –  The main day is initially dedicated to the God Ganesha; the god of wisdom, new beginnings and removing obstacles, followed by the day’s main worship of the Goddess Lakshmi; the goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is understood that Ganesha clears the way for success and blessings, and Lakshmi brings wealth, prosperity and blessings into the home.
    4. Govardhan Puja – A tribute to Lord Krishna’s protection of his devotees.
    5. Bhai Dooj – A special day to honour the bond between brothers and sisters.

    How to Celebrate Diwali at Home

    Here’s how you can create a magical Diwali experience, whether you’re celebrating with loved ones or starting your own traditions.

    Clean and Decorate Your Space
    Diwali starts with a fresh home. Deep clean your rooms, then add colour and light with:

    • Rangoli designs (colourful floor art made with powders, rice or flower petals)
    • Decorative candles and diyas
    • String lights and lanterns
    • Fresh flowers and garlands

    Tip: Choose warm-toned lighting to give your home a welcoming glow.

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    Light Diyas and Candles
    Lighting is at the heart of Diwali. Traditionally, people use clay diyas, oil lamps, and candles to banish darkness and invite blessings. Now, many also add LED fairy lights and electric lanterns for extra sparkle.
     

    Perform Lakshmi Puja
    On the main Diwali night, families worship Goddess Lakshmi to invite prosperity and peace. The puja includes offerings of sweets, incense, flowers, and prayers.

    Celebrate with Fireworks and Sparklers
    For many families, fireworks and sparklers are a traditional part of Diwali. While grand displays are popular, many families now opt for eco-friendly or safe indoor options to keep things enjoyable and responsible.

    Share Sweets and Snacks
    Food is a big part of Diwali. It’s the time to indulge in delicious Indian sweets like laddoos, barfi, gulab jamun, and savoury treats like samosas and namkeens.

    Host a Diwali Party

    From intimate gatherings to festive bashes, Diwali is all about bringing people together. Once prayers and rituals are complete, many families celebrate with themed decor, music, games, and a table full of treats.

    Make Diwali Meaningful

    Diwali is more than lights and sweets, it’s a time to pause, reconnect, and give thanks. Clean your space, light your home, forgive old grudges, and step into the new year with positivity and hope.
     
    Whether you’re celebrating at home, visiting family, or connecting with loved ones online, make it special with thoughtful touches and heartfelt traditions.

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