From everyone here at WeAreTheCity, we would like to wish you a happy Diwali!
Diwali, beginning today, is a five-day festival celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world.
The festival, also know as the Festival of Lights, is an ancient Hindu festival symbolising new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness.
During the festival, Hindus celebrate the homecoming of deities Rama and Sita after fourteen years in exile, having been banished with Rama’s brother by his stepmother. While exiled, Rama’s wife was captured by the 10-headed king of demons, Ravana. After battling to save her, they both return home and ever since, people light lamps at Diwali to remember that light triumphs over darkness and good triumphs over evil.
Traditionally, Sikhs celebrate Bandi Shor Divas (often translated as Prisoner Release Day) in honour of the sixth guru Hargobind Singh being released from prison in 1619. .
The founder of Jainism is Lord Mahavira. During Diwali, Jains celebrate his teachings and contributions not only to the religion but to greater humanity. Each year, Jains light lamps to symbolise keeping the light of his knowledge alive, and sweets are distributed in celebration of his contributions.
Diwali also marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year and is held in honour of Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. For many it signifies the start of the new financial year. On Diwali night, many offer prayers to Ganesh, the god representing good fortune and wisdom for the coming year.
The five-day festival features different ceremonies each day, with the third day being the main event. During the five days, people visit their relatives, have feasts, light oil lamps and celebrate the occasion with fireworks.
As the ceremony comes to a close, sweet offerings are placed in front of the deities, and clay lamps, known as diyas, are placed inside homes and outdoors. The aim is to attract Lakshmi’s attention and guide her towards the light to bestow blessings and prosperity for the year ahead.
This year, the celebrations will run from 22nd to 26th October:
- Dhanteras – Saturday, 22 October 2022
- Choti Diwali and Kali Chaudas and Narak Chaturdashi – Sunday, 23 October 2022
- Diwali – Monday – Monday, 24 October 2022
- Govardhan Puja – Tuesday, 25 October 2022
- Bhai Dooj – Wednesday, 26 October 2022
From everyone at WeAreTheCity, we wish you a happy Diwali!
