As autumn leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, over a billion people worldwide prepare for Diwali, the festival of lights. This magnificent celebration, derived from the Sanskrit word “deepavali” meaning “row of lights,” transforms homes and streets into a mesmerising canvas of illumination, marking nature’s transition from Sharad Ritu (autumn) to Hemanta Ritu (pre-winter).
The Significance
At its heart, Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. The festival finds its most famous roots in the epic Ramayana, where citizens of Ayodhya lit thousands of earthen lamps to welcome Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana after their 14-year exile and victory over the demon king Ravana. This homecoming, symbolising the victory of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (evil), became eternally entwined with Diwali’s spirit.
The timing of Diwali is particularly significant, falling on the darkest night of the year – the new moon (Amavasya) of the Hindu month of Kartik. This astronomical alignment creates the perfect backdrop for the festival’s message: even in the deepest darkness, light will prevail. The festival coincides with the end of the harvest season, when granaries are full and hearts are grateful for nature’s bounty.
The Sacred Five Days
The celebration unfolds over five magnificent days, each carrying its own significance. It begins with Dhanteras, when homes are cleaned and decorated, and new items are purchased for good fortune. The second day, Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, commemorates Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. The third day marks the main Diwali celebration, when Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, is worshipped. Padwa, the fourth day, celebrates the bond between husband and wife, while the final day, Bhai Dooj, honours the sacred relationship between brothers and sisters.
Health and Seasonal Transition
The period around Diwali, marking the transition between seasons, holds special significance for physical well-being. According to Ayurvedic wisdom, fasting during this time helps the body adapt to seasonal changes. As Pitta dosha becomes prominent during Sharad Ritu, fasting aids in detoxification and allows the digestive system to recalibrate. This practice of mindful eating and periodic fasting during the seasonal transition helps strengthen the immune system, improve intellectual clarity, and prepare the body for the approaching winter. The clear, crisp air of this season, combined with dietary discipline, creates the perfect conditions for rejuvenation and balanced health.
New Beginnings
The festival is also deeply intertwined with new beginnings. Many business communities begin their financial year on Diwali, closing old accounts and opening new books. Farmers express gratitude for the harvest and pray for a prosperous new agricultural cycle. The practice of lighting diyas (earthen lamps) serves both symbolic and practical purposes – while representing the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness, it traditionally helped keep crop-destroying insects at bay after the monsoon season.
As dusk falls on Diwali, homes come alive with the warm glow of diyas, the sparkle of fairy lights, and the artistic patterns of rangoli (colourful floor designs). The air fills with the fragrance of incense and freshly prepared sweets. Families gather to perform pujas (worship ceremonies), exchange gifts, and share festive meals. Children light sparklers and firecrackers, their faces glowing with joy and wonder.
Universal Spirit
In today’s world, while Diwali retains its spiritual and cultural significance, it has evolved into a celebration that transcends religious boundaries. It’s a time when communities come together, differences dissolve in the glow of countless lights, and hearts open to share joy and prosperity. The festival reminds us that just as tiny diyas can illuminate the darkest night, small acts of kindness and wisdom can light up our world.
As billions of lights twinkle across homes and hearts this Diwali, they carry forward an ancient message that remains eternally relevant: in the eternal dance between light and darkness, light will always triumph, and hope will forever guide us home.
