Despite the fact that Diwali (the holiday of lamps) is a Hindu holiday, it is very widely celebrated by Sikh communities. Diwali (its other name - Deepavali; Dipa - lamp) means "fiery bunch". This holiday marks the victory of light over darkness, good over evil.
An ancient legend says that the god Krishna, having learned about the cruel and merciless ruler Naragasuran, entered into single combat with him and won the victory. Before his death, the tyrant turned to the great Krishna with the last request: as soon as his heart stops beating - arrange a magnificent celebration. Since then, this is one of the most life-affirming holidays.
The last two days of the month Ashvin (late September - early October) and the first three days of the month of Kartik (late October - early November) are marked by the fact that the streets of all cities and villages in India and every house are illuminated with lights - bowls with wicks, painted lanterns, garlands of multicolored light bulbs. Fireworks are arranged in the squares to scare away evil spirits.
Diwali is several festive ceremonies. The first day is called Dhana Triodashi - Worship of Wealth. On the first day of Diwali, it is customary in a number of localities to rub the body with fragrant oils before dawn. Everyone tries to put on new clothes. The hostesses prepare a variety of sweets and treat guests generously. On this day, it is customary to send gifts to relatives and friends.
This holiday is celebrated especially solemnly by representatives of wealthy trading communities. For them, after all, a new business year begins, so on the first day of Diwali, a ceremony of a kind of worship of account books and a handful of silver coins is performed. The holiday ends with various gambling games.
The second day is dedicated to the victory of the god Krishna over the insidious king Naragasurana (or Naraka), who went down in history with his terrible hobby: he kidnapped their daughters from the gods, bringing the number of his victims to 16 thousand.
The third day is devoted to prayers to the goddess of beauty, wealth and well-being Lakshmi. Everyone is trying to achieve her favor by better decorating their house with bright lamps.
The fourth day is dedicated to the mythical ruler of Bali, whose kingdom was marked by general prosperity and happiness. To the sounds of ancient hymns, people repeat several times: "May all adversity disappear, may the kingdom of Bali come."
Promotional video:
On the fifth day of Diwali, the brothers give gifts and sweets to the sisters, all family members gather, and in the evening they light as many lights as possible and arrange real fireworks using crackers and other ingenious pyrotechnic devices.
From the book: "100 Great Holidays". Elena Olegovna Chekulaeva