Diwali 2023: The “festival of lights,” also referred to as Diwali or Deepawali, is customarily observed in October or November. This year, the festival falls on November 12. The festival, which spans more than five days, is observed by millions of Sikhs, Hindus, and Jains across the globe. The appellation for this celebration is derived from the words ‘avali,’ which translates to ‘row,’ and ‘deepa,’ which signifies “clay lamps.” These terms, when combined, signify “a row of lights.” As a result, illuminations are emblematic of this celebration, and Indians indulge in excessive use of sparklers and explosives in order to energize the inner light that protects them spiritually from the night.
Diwali History
One notable aspect of Diwali is that its significance extends beyond commemorating a singular historical event. Every religion is associated with a unique set of historical events and narratives. Hindus commemorate the fourteen-year exile of their revered deities Sita and Rama upon their return to Ayodhya. Additionally, the day is observed on which the goddess Mother Durga vanquished the demon Mahisha. The festival of lights additionally commemorates Ramachandra, the seventh manifestation of Lord Vishnu.
Additionally, the liberation of their sixth guru, Hargobind Singh, from prison in 1619 is commemorated by Sikhs. Surprisingly, on Diwali in 1577, the cornerstone of the Golden Temple of Amritsar, the holiest site for Sikhs, was inserted. According to the Jain faith, Lord Mahavira, the progenitor of Jainism, attained Moksha, or Nirvana, during the Diwali festival.
Irrespective of the religious or secular context in which it occurs, Diwali is synonymous with optimistic prospects and the assurance of a brighter day. Individuals enthusiastically illuminate luminaries within their residences and host lavish banquets as a way to commemorate joy, prosperity, and favorable circumstances. On Diwali, purity, sanitation, and luminosity are all synonymous. In the business community, the new fiscal year and harvest also commence on this date.
Feasts for Diwali continue for five days. As a symbol of good fortune, individuals clean their homes and purchase gold or culinary utensils on the first day. Clay lamps and vibrant ornamentation are added on the second day. Families gather on the third day of Diwali, the primary celebration, to partake in the Lakshmi pooja, during which they host lavish dinners and offer benedictions to the goddess Lakshmi. The aforementioned celebrations persist on days four and five, during which individuals exchange presents and extend invitations to loved ones for dinner.
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Diwali 2023 FAQs
Just why is Diwali observed?
Diwali, the festival of lighting, is observed predominantly in India. It is five days long and represents spirituality through the contrasts of light and darkness, knowledge and ignorance, and good and evil.
What exactly is Diwali?
Diwali is an epithet derived from the Sanskrit word dipawali, which translates to “a string of lights.”
Are Muslims Diwali celebrants?
Diwali has been observed by Muslims for centuries, with its zenith occurring primarily in the Subcontinent during the Mughal era. However, Muslims attach no religious or historical significance to the observance.
Diwali 2023 Activities
Enjoy a meal and company with loved ones.
It goes beyond mere illumination and legends. Diwali is a time to rejoice and express affection with loved ones. Collaborate by exchanging gifts, preparing delectable banquets, or viewing fireworks exhibitions. Go your absolute best!
Create magnificent displays
Vast bouquets, vivid sand rangolis, and vibrant attire! Display your artistic prowess in a store.
Reflect on your advantages.
In order to obtain the favors of the Hindu goddess of prosperity, Lakshmi, one is expected to appease her on this day.
Five enlightening details about Diwali
Comparing good and evil
Diwali is fundamentally a commemoration of the eternal victory of good over evil, symbolized by the triumph of light over darkness.
It resembles Christmas!
Hindus observe Diwali as their most significant holiday; it is comparable in significance to both Christmas and New Year’s.
Prohibit bang blasts!
In recent years, the Indian government has been compelled to prohibit the sale of firecrackers and pyrotechnics during Diwali as a result of rising pollution and accidents.
Sweetest of all things
Diwali is renowned for its assortment of sweets and special delights, such as the palatable ‘gulab jamun’ balls and ‘barfi.’
Conquering the entire universe
The festival has witnessed a surge in prominence beyond the borders of India, as evidenced by the yearly festivities that have been established in London, Sydney, and Toronto.
DIWALI DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | November 12 | Sunday |
| 2024 | October 31 | Thursday |
| 2025 | October 20 | Monday |
