diwali

DIWALI

Diwali, the festival of lights, commomerates the day when lord Rama returns to Ayodhya, lord Vishnu rescued Goddess Lakshmi from king Bali, and lord Krishna’s victory over the dreaded demon, Naraksura. . The celebrations of lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya, when citizens lit his way with earthen oil lamps(diyas), are re-created by lighting rows of diyas and candles, illuminating buildings, swastik and Rangoli patterns are painted in the fore court of residences as a sign of welcome and revelry. Children light fireworks to light up the sky in an array of designs, an integral part of the celebrations. The lighting of houses is said to attract Goddess Lakshmi, who brings prosperity to her devotees. The Hindu calender ends with Diwali, the next day is the Hindu new year, which begins with prayer. Relatives and freinds get together to celebrate the new year. Visit decorate their cows in a variety of colours, and feed them boiled grains. Bhaibij is the day after the new year when sisters feed their brothers. Five days after Diwali, is Pancham, an auspicious day to commence business. Jains celebrate Pancham or Panchami by worshipping their books and praying for more knowledge. Hindu business men worship Goddess Lakshmi and open their accounts.

The day before Diwali, visit the Bengal club in Ahmedabad to experience Kali pooja.