DIWALI
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a colourful festival of lights celebrated by
Hindus worldwide. It usually falls around late October and November. We consider
Deepavali as one of our most important festivals. During this event, it is important
to light oil lamps in our homes on Deepavali morning. For Hindus, the gesture of
lighting the oil lamps means we are thanking the Gods for the happiness, knowledge,
peace and wealth that we have received.
The story behind this festival goes, that Narakasura was the demon that ruled over
the kingdom of Pradyoshapuram. Under his reign, the villagers suffered a lot of
hardship as the demon tortured the people and kidnapped the women to be
imprisoned in his palace. Lord Krishna witnessing his wickedness, so he set out
to destroy the demon and the day Narakasura died is celebrated as Deepavali,
the triumph of good over evil!
What I love about Deepavali is all the busy preparation for the upcoming festival –
we go shopping for new clothes and accessories to decorate our homes. It's also a
time when families come together and make Indian food and sweets. Some of the
sweets I love to eat are halwa, burfi and laddu. A few weeks before the festival we
would be busy cleaning our homes. Some would even renovate their houses. Indian
shops will be selling festive items like Deepavali greeting cards, carpets, Punjabi
suits and flowers.
On the day of Deepavali, after breakfast we would go to the temple for our prayers.
We would pray for happiness and prosperity. We also decorate our homes with oil
lamps and light firecrakers to celebrate the Festival of Lights. On the first day we stay
at home to welcome our guests. It's one of the best times as I get to dress up in
traditional outfits. I also eat amazing and delicious Indian food. We also visit family
and relatives at their homes, wishing everyone a Happy Deepavali and feast on
gorgeous food.
Avni Shah
