It was the darkest night of the month as Lord Ram, Sita, and Laxman walked towards their home, Ayodhya, after 14 years of exile and fighting a heroic war that had changed the course of history. As they walked onwards, they could see the gentle glow of light flickering in the distance, that grew with each step they took. 

They were close now and could see the whole kingdom illuminated with rows and rows of diyas and a gentle hum in the air that said, ‘Jai Shree Ram’, ‘Jai Shree Ram’!

The festival of lights, Deepawali had just been born!

Diwali is one of the most important festivals of the year celebrated in India and other parts of Asia. It is a pious occasion filled with lights and joy. It is a time when families come together, reconnect, and celebrate the days of Diwali with love and warmth. People exchange Diwali gifts and sweets and visit each other to spread the joy. It is a time when everyone is drenched in the spirit of tradition and well-being. In this blog let us talk about the five days of Diwali. 

DHANTERAS

This day marks the beginning of Diwali festivities and coincides with the 13th lunar day of Krishna Paksha, according to the Hindu calendar. The day is celebrated to worship Dhanvantri, considered to be the god of Ayurveda who imparted the knowledge of Ayurveda for the betterment of mankind. People celebrate this day by buying silver utensils, silver coins, and gold on this auspicious day.

NARAKA-CHATURDASI (Choti Diwali)

The second day of Diwali festivities is celebrated as the Naraka Chaturdashi, also commonly known as the Choti Diwali. According to Hindu folklore, Lord Shri Krishna, Lord Vishnu’s ninth reincarnation, defeated the demon Narakasura on this day. People celebrate this day by waking up early and dressing in clean clothes and enjoying delicious breakfast with family and friends.

LAKSHMI PUJA

The third day of Diwali festivities is the main day, celebrated as Deepawali. The day honors Goddess Lakshmi, who bestows wealth, fortune, and prosperity on the family.

Members of the family wake up early, dress up in beautiful clothes, and make beautiful rangolis and light diyas, lights, and candles around the house. The whole house is adorned with strings of flowers, such as Marigolds and Roses which spread a fragrant aroma. In the evening everyone gathers around the home mandir and sings aartis for Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi and bathe in the spiritual vibes of the day. 

GOVARDHAN POOJA

The fourth day of the Diwali festivities is celebrated as Govardhan Puja or Padva. It is the day when Lord Krishna defeated Indra by lifting the huge Govardhan Mountain. People rejoice in the day by making a small hillock and worshipping it.

BHAI DOOJ

The fifth and last day of the Days of Diwali celebrates Bhai Dooj.

On this day, sisters prepare a lavish meal perform a ‘Tilak’ ceremony, and pray for their brother’s well-being.

Diwali, the festival of lights symbolizes the victory of good over evil, making it a heartwarming celebration.