Diwali Celebration
October 9, 2009
Diwali is popularly known as festival of lights because it has a way of bringing prosperity and ligting up our lives. This joyous festival’s planning starts almost two-three months in advance and as the date draws closer, so does the hype.
Most people decide to paint their houses before diwali, buy new furnishings, curtains and even furniture. They are actually tempted by the discounts given during this time. Diwali discounts are not limited to only household products but also extended to clothes, jewelry, shoes… you name it and there is always something available at a discounted price or assured free gifts.
Buying new clothes to be worn on Diwali is more of a tradition than a mere shopping spree. It is strongly believed that on this auspicious day everyone should wear something new. It is linked to properity and happiness of the individual and his household.
Some other striking features related to this festival are the Diwali lights that glimmer from every window and balcony. The Diwali diyas are specially crafted for this occasion and it is mandatory that everyone should light atleast one such diya (oil lamps made from baked clay). Diyas are available in vibrant colors and decorated with glass, kundan beads and crystals. Ideally diyas should be lit with wicks dipped in ghee or clarified butter but now for ease and convenience, diyas are filled with candle wax with wick similar to candles.
Diwali is synonymous with fire crackers. Adults lose their inhibitions and behave like children when it comes to bursting crackers. Diwali festival denotes spreading cheer and happiness and the best way to do this by lavish feasts and eating sweets. There are special sweets that are prepared only for this festive occasion. Kaju Katli, Boondi Laddoo, Sohan Halwa, Sohan Papdi, Mawa and Milk Barfi and so on. Every state of India has its own special sweet dedicated to celebrate this season.
Diwali wishes are sent out to friends, family, colleagues and neighbours with special dry fruit hampers, assorted sweet boxes, aromatic diya sets and various hampers of sweet and salted savouries. Exchanging gifts is a tradition and a good way of building relationships whether corporate or personal.
On a typical Diwali morning, most households will have the following events taking place in their homes. A decorative toran will be hung at the entrance. Some families prefer a toran of fresh marigold flowers alternating with mango leaves.
Beautiful rangoli made of vibrant rainbow colors will adorn the entranc flooring along with a lighted diya. The rangoli will also include a symbolic motif of Goddess Laxmi’s feet, denoting that she will be entering the house. The members of the family will be dressed in new clothes, working to get things ready for Laxmi Puja or Pujan. Children will be eyeing the sweets and gearing up to burst some crackers.
Friends and relatives will be pouring in with Diwali gifts and partaking in the rituals of the Puja/Pooja. Later, there will be a lavish spread of food and sweets for everyone to feast on. These celebrations carry on to the following days until Bhai Dhuj festival is over.
So this Diwali, other than doing Laxmi Pujan, eating Kaju Katli, we should all spread the festive cheer among those who are underprivileged and less fortunate. This will be the best way to celebrate an auspicious occasion.
©Nayna, 2007-2009. All Rights Reserved.
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