Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated with immense enthusiasm across India. However, its significance and traditions vary from state to state. Let’s explore how different regions celebrate this grand festival.
Diwali in North India: A Celebration of Lord Rama’s Return
In North India, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. People light diyas, burst fireworks, and decorate their homes with rangoli. Major celebrations take place in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Punjab, and Rajasthan. The evening puja is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, inviting prosperity and wealth.
Diwali in Gujarat: Lakshmi Puja and New Year Celebrations
Gujaratis celebrate Diwali with great enthusiasm, mainly focusing on Lakshmi Puja. The festival also marks the beginning of a new financial year for traders. People draw intricate rangoli patterns and light earthen lamps to welcome prosperity. The next day, they observe Bestu Varas, the Gujarati New Year.
Diwali in Maharashtra: The Five-Day Festival
Maharashtra celebrates Diwali as a five-day festival starting with Vasu Baras, where cows are worshipped. The second day, Dhanteras, is significant for purchasing gold and new utensils. The third day, Naraka Chaturdashi, includes an early morning oil bath. On the main day, people perform Lakshmi Puja, followed by Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj.
Diwali in West Bengal: Worship of Goddess Kali
West Bengal celebrates Diwali as Kali Puja. Devotees worship Goddess Kali, the destroyer of evil, with grand rituals. Unlike other states, homes and temples are illuminated with lamps and candles to honor the goddess. Firecrackers are burst to ward off negative energies.
Diwali in Tamil Nadu: Naraka Chaturdashi Importance
In Tamil Nadu, Naraka Chaturdashi is the most important day of the festival. People take an oil bath before sunrise, a ritual believed to cleanse sins. Families prepare special sweets and light lamps to mark the triumph of good over evil. Crackers are burst throughout the day.
Diwali in Karnataka: The Victory of Lord Krishna
Karnataka celebrates Diwali with a focus on Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. Homes are cleaned and decorated with flowers and lamps. Lakshmi Puja is performed, followed by feasts and fireworks. The festival also includes Govardhan Puja and Bali Pratipada.
Diwali in Andhra Pradesh & Telangana: Lakshmi Puja and Bhogi Festival
People in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana celebrate Diwali with Lakshmi Puja, lighting lamps, and bursting firecrackers. The festival is also associated with Bhogi, a ritual where old items are discarded, symbolizing a fresh start. Special sweets like Ariselu and Pootharekulu are prepared.
Diwali in Odisha: The Ritual of ‘Badabadua Daka’
In Odisha, Diwali is observed with a unique ritual called ‘Badabadua Daka.’ People light jute-stem torches and chant prayers to their ancestors, seeking blessings. Homes are decorated with rangoli, and Lakshmi Puja is performed at night.
Diwali in Bihar & Jharkhand: A Blend of Traditions
Bihar and Jharkhand celebrate Diwali by worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and lighting earthen lamps. The festival is followed by Chhath Puja, a significant event dedicated to the Sun God. Fireworks, sweets, and family gatherings mark the celebrations.
Diwali in Himachal Pradesh: A Spiritual Retreat
In Himachal Pradesh, Diwali is celebrated with prayers and family gatherings. People visit temples and perform Lakshmi Puja. The festival also includes a ritual where cattle are adorned and worshipped as a symbol of prosperity.
Conclusion
Diwali is more than just a festival; it is a cultural phenomenon celebrated with diverse traditions across India. Whether it’s Lakshmi Puja in North India, Kali Puja in Bengal, or Naraka Chaturdashi in the South, the spirit of Diwali unites the country in a celebration of light, joy, and prosperity.