Divali: The festival of lights, celebration of the victory of good over evil and prosperity
Divali , also known as Diwali or Deepavali , is one of the most important and joyous festivals in Hinduism, also celebrated by Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists. It is a festival of lights that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Here's everything you need to know about Divali, answering the essential questions: who, when, where, why, with whom, and what.
Who celebrates Diwali?
Divali is primarily celebrated by Hindus, but also by Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists. Families, friends, and communities gather to celebrate the holiday. In countries with a large Indian population, such as India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Mauritius, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, and Fiji, Divali is a national holiday. Many non-Hindu people also participate in the celebrations in a spirit of togetherness and joy.
When is Divali?
Divali is celebrated on five consecutive days during the Hindu month of Kartika (between mid-October and mid-November). The exact date varies each year depending on the lunar calendar. Here are the Divali dates for the next 10 years:
- 2023 : Sunday November 12
- 2024 : Thursday October 31
- 2025 : Monday October 20
- 2026 : Friday, November 6
- 2027 : Tuesday October 26
- 2028 : Sunday October 15
- 2029 : Friday, November 2
- 2030 : Wednesday October 23
- 2031 : Monday, November 10
- 2032 : Saturday October 29
Where is Divali celebrated?
Divali is celebrated wherever Hindu and Indian communities live. Celebrations take place in homes, temples, streets, and community centers. In India, each region has its own traditions and ways of celebrating Divali. Cities and towns are illuminated with rows of oil lamps and fireworks. Countries with a significant Indian diaspora, such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Australia, also see large public celebrations.
Why do we celebrate Diwali?
The main objective of Divali is to:
- Celebrating the victory of good over evil : Diwali commemorates Lord Rama's victory over the demon Ravana and his return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile.
- Worship Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth : Devotees pray for prosperity, wealth and happiness in their homes.
- Bringing families and communities together : Diwali is a time of sharing, reconciliation and strengthening social and family ties.
- Promoting light and knowledge : The festival symbolizes spiritual enlightenment and the removal of ignorance.
Who do we celebrate Divali with?
Divali is celebrated with family, friends, neighbors, and community members. Families gather for festive meals, exchange gifts and sweets, and participate in religious rituals together. Community celebrations include cultural performances, festive markets, and fireworks.
What to do to celebrate Divali?
During Divali, various activities and traditions are put in place:
- Decorating the house : Houses are cleaned and decorated with rangoli (coloured powder designs), oil lamps (diyas), lanterns and string lights.
- Lighting lamps : Diyas are lit to symbolize the victory of light over darkness and are placed in homes and temples.
- Praying and Worship : Devotees pray and offer offerings to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and other deities.
- Sharing Festive Meals : Families and friends share special meals and traditional treats.
- Exchanging gifts : Gifts, especially sweets and new clothes, are exchanged between close relatives.
- Setting off fireworks : Fireworks and firecrackers are set off to celebrate the occasion in a festive and joyful manner.
- Participate in community events : Fairs, parades and cultural performances are held in many areas.
Diwali is a festival rich in tradition, light, and festivities. It is a special occasion to celebrate the victory of good over evil, worship deities, strengthen family and community bonds, and spread joy and light. Whether you are at home, in your community, or on the go, Diwali offers many opportunities to participate in joyful and meaningful celebrations.
