Diwali, Dipavali, Divali or Deepawali, which is also known as 'the festival of
lights', is the Indian festival that brings a series of festivals with it. The
people of all age groups and classes celebrate Diwali throughout India with
equal zeal and enthusiasm. They put on new clothes and participate in the
various activities that are related to Diwali celebrations. Diwali falls on the
day of 'Amavasyaa' usually in the month of October or November. On this day,
people light tiny diyas (earthen lamps) to illuminate their homes with bright
light and create lovely designs all around their home with colorful rangoli art.
Diwali is a five-day long festival, each day being significant in its own terms.
The celebrations commence on Aswayuja Bahula Chaturdashi and culminate on
Kartika Shudha Vijaya. The first day of this festival is called 'Dhan Trayodashi'
or 'Dhanteras', wherein people worship Goddess Lakshmi and purchase utensils
made of silver. The second day of Diwali is called 'Narak Chaturdashi', which is
popular as 'Chhoti Diwali'. The third day of Diwali, which is also called 'Badi
Diwali', is the main day of the celebrations of the festival. People perform
Lakshmi Puja (worship of divine Goddess Lakshmi) on this day and offer prayers
to her, to bless them with wealth and prosperity.
The fourth day of Diwali is devoted to Govardhan Pooja (worship of Lord
Govardhan Parvat). The fifth day of the Diwali is Bhai Dooj, the time to honor
the brother-sister relationship. Bursting crackers, social gatherings, exchange
of greetings, sweets and gifts with loved ones are also part of the festival.
During the festival, people following Hinduism offer prayers, and worship their
favorite deity. Worshipping of Goddess Lakshmi, worship of Lord Ganesha, worship
of Mother Kali, worship of Lord Chitragupta and worship of Govardhan Parvat is
considered very auspicious for the occasion.
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