Diwali 🪔 in India is so much fun!

🇮🇳 Diwali is the most important and anticipated festival in India. 🪔 Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is celebrated in the month of Kartik according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar, falling between October and November. On this day, all of India is filled with magical lights and a lively atmosphere 😝 🪔 Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights or Dipawali, is a festival celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and bringing blessings, freedom, and enlightenment. 1⃣️ Why celebrate Diwali? The origins of Diwali stem from various scriptures, the most popular being the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, returned to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps (diyas) to welcome them, celebrating the victory of good over evil. This tradition has continued for centuries, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and the ushering in of prosperity and happiness. 2⃣️ How is Diwali celebrated? The festival is celebrated over five days. Day 1: Dhanatrayodashi Before Diwali officially arrives, Indians clean and renovate their homes. During this time, everyone is busy shopping, especially buying gold, jewelry, kitchenware, etc., in the market to pray for good luck and prosperity throughout the year. Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi On this day, Narakasura was defeated by Lord Krishna, signifying the victory of good. People often wake up early and bathe with fragrant oils to cleanse themselves of all sins and impurities. Additionally, people decorate their homes, with many families hanging lights to brighten and beautify their spaces. Day 3: Lakshmi Puja This is the most important day of the festival. People light clay oil lamps or cloth wicks placed throughout their homes and on every corner of the streets, making the spaces magical and beautiful, like a great work of art, with bright lights everywhere. Families who worship Lakshmi also perform worship and prayer rituals. Day 4: Govardhan Puja People prepare elaborate and eye-catching dishes and arrange them on small hills symbolizing Govardhan Hill, which Lord Krishna lifted. This day is also celebrated as a day of love between husband and wife in India, so men often buy gifts for their wives. Day 5: Bhai Dooj On this day, family members gather and perform the tilak ceremony. Sisters pray for the happiness and health of their brothers, and brothers give meaningful gifts to their sisters.