Deepavali

Deepavali, or Divali is a major Indian festival, and a significant festival in Hinduism, Sikhism and Jainism. Many legends are associated with Diwali. Today it is celebrated by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs across the globe as the “Festival of Lights,” where the lights or lamps signify victory of good over the evil within every human being. The festival is also celebrated by Buddhists of Nepal, particularly the Newar Buddhists.

In many parts of India, it is the homecoming of King Rama of Ayodhya after a 14-year exile in the forest. The people of Ayodhya (the capital of his kingdom) welcomed Rama by lighting rows (avali) of lamps (deepa), thus its name, Deepavali. This word, in due course, became Diwali in Hindi. But, in South Indian languages, the word did not undergo any change, and hence the festival is called Deepavali in southern India. Southern India marks it as the day Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura.

Diwali is celebrated on the first day of the lunar Kartika month, which comes in the month of October or November.

In Jainism it marks the nirvana of Lord Mahavira, which occurred on October 15, 527 BCE. The Sikhs celebrate Diwali for a different reason; on this day, the Sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji, was freed from imprisonment along with 52 Hindu Kings (political prisoners) whom he had arranged to be released as well. After his release he went to Darbar Sahib (golden temple) in the holy city of Amritsar. There, he was greeted by Sikhs and many other people. In happiness they lit candles and diyas to greet the Guru. In India, Diwali is now considered to be a national festival, and the aesthetic aspect of the festival is enjoyed by most Indians regardless of faith.

* 2006, it was celebrated on October 21, a Saturday.
* 2007 it was celebrated on November 9, a Friday.
* in 2008 it’s on Tuesday October 28.
* in 2009 it will be on Saturday, October 17.

Diwali = Row of Lights
Deepavali = Festival of Lights
Observed by: Religiously by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains. Other Indians celebrate the cultural aspects.
Type: Religious, Indian
Significance: Celebrate victory over evil, and uplifting of spiritual darkness.
Date: New moon day of Kartika, although the celebrations begin two days prior and end two days after that date
2007 date: November 9
2008 date: October 28
2009 date: October 17 It might change in the future
Celebrations: Decorating homes with lights, Fireworks, distributing sweets and gifts.
Observances: Prayers, Religious rituals