On the darkest night of the Hindu month of Kartik, millions of clay lamps, or diyas, are lit across India and the world. This is Diwali, the festival of lights. Its name comes from the Sanskrit 'deepa' for lamp and 'avali' for row. The celebration embodies a simple, powerful idea from an ancient prayer: 'Tamaso Ma Jyotirgamaya,' or 'Lead me from darkness to light.' It marks the triumph of good over evil and spiritual light over inner darkness. But the reasons for this celebration are as diverse as India itself. In the north, it celebrates a returning king. In the south, a vanquished demon. For others, it marks the birth of a goddess or the liberation of a great teacher. What are these stories?
The Origins of Diwali
Diwali, the Hindu, Jain and Sikh festival of lights: the stories behind it, from Rama's return to Ayodhya to the release of Guru Hargobind.
Chapter 1
The Festival of Lights
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the word Diwali mean?
The name 'Diwali' comes from the Sanskrit words 'deepa,' meaning lamp or light, and 'avali,' meaning a row or series. It literally translates to 'a row of lights,' referring to the clay lamps, or diyas, that are lit during the festival.
Is Diwali only a Hindu festival?
While it is most famously a Hindu festival, Diwali is also celebrated by Jains and Sikhs. For Jains, it marks the day Lord Mahavira achieved nirvana. For Sikhs, it is known as Bandi Chhor Divas and celebrates the release of Guru Hargobind from prison.
Why is Diwali celebrated over five days?
The modern festival is a five-day affair, with each day having its own significance. The sequence moves from preparing for wealth on Dhanteras to celebrating the sibling bond on Bhai Dooj, with the main celebrations for Lakshmi and the victory of good over evil falling on the third day.
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