Diwali or ‘Deepavali’ is famously known as ‘the festival of lights’, it is worldly celebrated by people of the religions: Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and some Buddhists.  This festival usually lasts for a week, it normally occurs between October and November.  Unlike other annual festival like Halloween and Christmas, Diwali dates change every year. This year it took place between November 2-6, with the most important day of the festival falling on November 4.  

During the festive time of diwali, in countries such as India it is celebrated very grandly, but Asians living in foreign countries don’t back up a bit when it comes to Diwali.  Migrants carry their roots with them and go all out!  

On day 1 of diwali, it is ‘Dhanteras’ in other words, the worship of wealth.  Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped on this day since she is the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People clean and decorate their homes ready for the upcoming days.  Houses are often full of light decor and traditional decorations.  

On day 2 of diwali, it is Naraka Chaturdashi otherwise known as Choti Diwali. People wake up early and apply aromatic oils on them before taking a bath. This is because they believe this would remove all sins and impurities. In addition, they wear new clothes and jewellery.  At this time of year especially, most Indian clothing and jewellery shops bring out their newest diwali stock and plus give out amazing offers.  People offer Puja and enjoy day 2 by lighting diyas (candles/lights) and bursting few crackers.  You wouldn’t be surprised to see streets full of lights and sounds of fireworks on the next few days.    

Day 3 of diwali is the main day, it is when people usually like to visit their places of worship such as a temple or a Gurudwara to offer prayers and good will to the new beginnings.  Lakshmi Puja is performed on this day.  Goddess Lakshmi is believed to enter homes and bless people with good fortune. Rangoli patterns are often drawn and coloured in-front of their houses to make their house look delightful and pleasant for the coming visitors.  Delicious Indian food is cooked and served to guests and traditional Indian sweets are shared among themselves.  Games are played and gifts are exchanged by everyone, sometimes even dance takes place.  This is a way of getting the whole family involved and create bonding time with everyone.  As it darkens, fireworks are lit up and we enjoy the views.  You could also find, diwali celebrations happening in your area, for example in Leicester this year, they had fireworks, lights and Indian street food being served almost everywhere.  Similar celebrations may also happen around you! 

The final 2 days are mainly celebrated by more fireworks and more food with more family.  

 

This year we are lucky to have celebrated in such a fun, amazing manner due to the relaxed covid restrictions.  Lets just hope that everything calms down even more and we go back to normal.