The literal meaning of Deepavali in Sanskrit is 'a row of lamps.'
That's why Diwali is called the festival of lights. As we all celebrate
it by lighting of diyas in our home. It is a tradition that is popular
in most regions of the country. Even today in this modern world it
projects the rich and glorious past of our country and teaches us to
uphold the true values of life. Every festival of India has such
glorious and rich traditions that are portrayed through its celebration.
Diwali is associated with many customs and traditions. Like the
tradition of rangoli, tradition of burning crackers, tradition of
lights, tradition of Diwali pujas and Diwali gifts Tradition. One of the
most curious customs, which characterizes this festival of Diwali, is
the indulgence of gambling, especially on a large scale in north India.
Rangoli is a traditional Hindu folk art; it is a kind of designs
generally created on a floor on special festive occasions. The origin of
this art can be traced to the Puranas (works on Hindu mythology). It is
said that the tradition of rangoli originated in Maharastra and slowly
disseminated to other parts of India. It gives a colorful look to the
festival celebration.
The festival of Diwali remind us of the brilliant display of colorful
fireworks which explode in the dark nights. The cities are famous for
these. It is an unique part of Diwali celebration. Now it has become an
inseparable part of Diwali festival. Exchange of gifts is another unique
feature of Diwali celebration. Diwali encourage people to gather and
socialize with friends and family, exchange gifts and share home-cooked
meals. The diwali gifts exchanged on this occasion reflect happiness,
love and joy. Lighting of diyas is also an important part of Diwali
celebration. Lighting diyas brings divine brightness and joy with the
hope of finding light in darkness, achieving knowledge where there is
ignorance and spreading love where there is hatred. It symbolizes the
victory of good over evil and light over darkness. Diwali is also
associated with pujas of different Gods. There are many legends and
religious accounts to it. Lights and diyas are lit to signifying the
driving away of darkness and ignorance, as well as the awakening of the
light within us. That's why the festival of Diwali is a true portrayal
of the rich cultural and traditional values and customs of India.
