Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is one of the most significant festivals in Hindu culture, celebrated both in India and by Hindu communities across the world. This vibrant Festival of Lights is a symbol of the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. As we prepare for Diwali 2024, let’s explore its origins, traditions, and auspicious timings for this year's celebrations.
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Diwali 2024: Celebrations, Origins, and Auspicious Timings
Indian Mythology • 25 Oct, 2024 • 1,088 Views • ⭐ 5.0
Written by Shivani Chourasia
Mythological Roots of Diwali
Diwali’s roots can be traced to various mythological stories, each contributing to the rich tapestry of its significance.
Lord Rama’s Return to Ayodhya
The most well-known story linked to Diwali is the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile. According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana were forced into exile due to palace intrigue. During this time, Sita was abducted by the demon king Ravana. After a heroic battle, Lord Rama defeated Ravana and returned home with Sita. The citizens of Ayodhya lit oil lamps, or diyas, to guide them home, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
Other Mythological Tales
Another tale comes from the Mahabharata, where the Pandava brothers returned from exile, greeted by hundreds of lamps lit in their honor. In South India, Diwali celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon king Narakasura. Additionally, the festival is closely associated with the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. According to an ancient myth, Lakshmi submerged herself into the Milky Ocean, and it took a thousand years of churning the ocean to bring her back, symbolizing the eventual return of fortune.
Preparing for Diwali 2024
The days leading up to Diwali are filled with customs and rituals, with families dedicating themselves to cleaning and decorating their homes. Cleaning and preparing the home is a key tradition as devotees believe that a clean space invites Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings of wealth and prosperity. Many families repaint or renovate their homes to ensure everything is ready for this sacred festival. Lighting lamps and designing colorful rangoli patterns from powders or flowers are integral to Diwali. These beautiful decorations are not just aesthetic but are believed to bring divine blessings into the home.