It is good to start the day with a fresh feeling and a clear idea how the rest of the day will go. In many parts of Northern India, Diwali is celebrated as a new beginning, a beginning of a financial year, a beginning of peace and prosperity.
The celebration is dedicated to the return of an ancient prince, Rama, to his legendary kingdom of Ayodhya and his subsequent coronation. It is a classic tale retold not only in all parts of India but in many parts of the eastern world.
Ram, his wife Sita and his brother Lakshman had been exiled for 14 long years to the dark forests to wander for years and years on the request to the broken hearted King of Ayodhya from Rama’s evil stepmother. During that time Ram’s wife gets kidnapped by the powerful king Ravana. Rama fought a victorious battle against the demon king Ravana in the island empire of Lanka.
Rama rescued his wife Sita with the help of the man-monkey Hanuman and with soldiers made up of the supernatural jungle friends Rama and Lakshmana had made during their exile. The Star Wars episode 1 is inspired by the story of Ramayana (Link.)
Diwali is celebrated in October or November based on when the lunar date falls. The return of Rama also coincides with the harvest season. Therefore Diwali is celebrated with pomp and glory to celebrate a new beginning of prosperity and abundance.
Clay lamps are lit in pathways and homes to guide Rama and Sita back to their home. India was an agricultural society where people would also seek the divine blessing of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
The celebration always starts with the cleaning of the house and shopping for gold or kitchen utensils. Buying gold is an important part of the festival. It is to welcome the Goddess of Wealth. This is because the reign of Rama was considered a prosperous time and a golden age.
The homes are decorated with rangoli or kolam at the entrance of the house, with eye-catching designs and colors. Terracotta oil lamps are lit around the house. Families are invited, flowers and or flower garlands are given out and prayers are conducted to honor Goddess Lakshmi.
Sweets are distributed and mouth-watering feasts are served, and firework festivities begin with Diwali wishes to all. New clothes are worn to signify a fresh start. And so the new year is begun with a bang. Some may call it a big bang!
