Diwali also known as Deepavali is one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism celebrated by millions of people across the world. The festival usually falls between mid-October and mid-November depending on the lunar calendar.
The story behind Diwali varies across different regions of India and even within different communities. However one of the most well-known narratives associated with Diwali is the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom of Ayodhya after a 14-year exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana.
According to the ancient Indian epic the Ramayana Lord Rama along with his wife Sita and his loyal brother Lakshmana spent 14 years in exile during which time they faced numerous challenges and encountered various characters both divine and demonic. One of the most famous episodes of the Ramayana is the kidnapping of Sita by the demon king Ravana who takes her to his kingdom of Lanka.
With the help of the monkey god Hanuman and his army of monkeys Lord Rama wages war against Ravana to rescue Sita. After a fierce battle Rama defeats Ravana and rescues Sita returning to Ayodhya victorious. The people of Ayodhya overjoyed at the return of their beloved prince light lamps and celebrate his homecoming by illuminating the entire kingdom thus symbolizing the victory of light over darkness good over evil and knowledge over ignorance.
Diwali also holds significance for other reasons. In some parts of India it marks the celebration of the goddess Lakshmi the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People clean and decorate their homes light oil lamps and candles burst fireworks exchange sweets and gifts and offer prayers to Lakshmi to seek her blessings for prosperity and well-being in the coming year.
Overall Diwali is a festival that embodies the spirit of joy unity and the triumph of righteousness. It brings together families friends and communities fostering a sense of togetherness and spreading happiness and light wherever it is celebrated.