Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India, marked by a wide array of vibrant customs and traditions. Here’s a glimpse into how Diwali is celebrated across India:
Cleaning and Decorating the Home
- People start preparing days in advance by thoroughly cleaning, renovating, and decorating their homes. It’s believed that a clean and well-lit home invites the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
- Homes are adorned with colorful rangoli (artistic designs made with colored powders or flower petals) at the entrance, and beautiful torans (decorative garlands) are hung on doors.
Lighting Lamps and Candles
- Diwali is also called the “Festival of Lights.” People light up their homes with diyas (oil lamps), candles, and fairy lights, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
Worship (Puja) of Deities
- Lakshmi Puja is central to Diwali celebrations. Families gather to pray to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, seeking blessings for wealth, prosperity, and happiness.
- After the puja, it’s common to distribute offerings as prasad (food blessed in the ritual) among family and friends.