History+of+Diwali

Diwali is a major Hindu holiday that is celebrated on the 13th day of the dark half of the lunar month Ashvina, which usually falls in late Autumn. The word Diwali derives from Deepavali, meaning “row of lights,” to celebrate the the legend of Lord Rama and his wife, Sita, from returning from defeating the demon king, Ravanna, from years of exile in the 15th century BC. In different regions, they worship other gods, like in Bengal, India they celebrate the goddess of time, Kali, and in North India they worship the return of many gods to the city of Ayodhya. Diwali last up to five days and it marks Hindu New Year, to represent new beginnings and victory of good and evil.

 During Diwali, small clay lamps filled with oil line temples, homes and drift down rivers and streams. Bright sands, like purples, pinks and blues, are used to decorate outside of homes and families come together to share food and good times. On the first day, families “spring clean” their homes and shop for gold or kitchen utensils. The second day, they decorate their homes with clay lamps and design patters on the floor with color sands. On the third day, this is the main day, the start of a New Year, which families gather together to pray to the Goddess Lakshmi and then feasts and firework displays. On the fourth day, it the mark of the new year and families visit each other to give their best wishes and exchange gifts. The last day, brother visit their married sisters to have a meal together. The festival is based on a legend that has been passed down for generations and many believe to be true. The legend emphasizes family unity, good over evil and make a fresh start from the year before. It marks the start of a New Year for Hindu and the triumph good over evil.

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