Diwali (Deepawali)

Diwali or Deepawali or Dipawali is one the most important, hugely waited and immensely cherished festival celebrated across India and in parts of Nepal. Originally, the name was Deepawali, which has its origin from Sanskrit, meaning “rows of Deep”.

Over the years the name has been pronounced as Diwali, especially in Hindi, whereas it still remains Dipawali in Nepali. Diwali also popularly known as “Festival of Lights” is celebrated with great gusto and is observed as an official holiday across in India.

Importance:

The festival of Diwali is not only significant to Hindus, but, has importance in Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism. For Hindus, it is associated with the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya, after his 14 years of exile and victory over the demon Ravana.

On that day, he was welcomed to the kingdom to Ayodhya with rows of Deep, lightened throughout the kingdom.

Thus, there is a tradition of lighting oil lamps that symbolize the victory of good over evil and freedom from spiritual darkness.

Hindus, also make preparations to welcome goddess Lakshmi by drawing rangoli, and footsteps (Paduka) On the entrance that would allure goddess Laksmi to visit one’s home and bring prosperity along with her.

Customs:

There are numerous customs and traditions associated with Diwali, namely, burning of crackers, playing cards, lightning of lamps, wearing new clothes, distribution of sweets, exchange of gifts etc.

A Five Day Festival:

Diwali celebrations spread across five days, with each day having its own significance and set of rituals.

The first day is called “Dhanteras”, on which new utensils and silver ware is brought to the house. The second day is called “Chhoti Diwali”, which normally involves preparation for the next day and the tradition of playing cards is observed in many families.

The next day, or third day is the “Badi Diwali”, which involves the worshiping of mother Lakshmi.The fourth day is the Govardhan Puja and finally the five days end with Bhai Dooj.

The festival of Diwali is truly a “Festival of Lights”, as it not only involves lighting of Lamps but, it brings the light of happiness, togetherness, spiritual enlightment and prosperity for everyone.

With the sounds of crackers killing all bad-omens, the lighted lamps-lighting the lives of people, the prayers and pujas creating an atmosphere full of goodness and purity, the festival of Diwali indeed fills the atmosphere with an aura of goodness and a heaven like atmosphere.

Time to celebrate

According to the Hindu calendar, the festival of Diwali is celebrated on the new moon day that marks the end of Ashwin and beginning of Kartik month. In 2011, it will fall on 26th October.

History of Diwali

Diwali is one of the most important Hindu festivals. Although the main reason for the celebration of Diwali is the return of Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and victory over Ravana, history traces back to other important events of significance associated with Diwali.

Return of Rama to Ayodhya

On this day Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after completing his exile of 14 years and defeating the Demon king Ravana in a ferocious battle.

On his return the delighted people of Ayodhya had illuminated the complete kingdom with oil lamps Deep.

Also, while returning to Ayodhya he traveled from South towards North, that is why, Diwali is celebrated one day before in Southern India.

Narakasur’s End:

According to the Puranas, Naraka, the son of Bhudevi, had a blessing from Lord Brahma according to which he could face death only at the hands of mother Bhudevi.

Because of this, he started to create immense destruction and harassing of celestial beings. Tired and irritated with the brutalities, people asked Lord Krishna to help them.

Due to the blessing with Naraka, Lord Krishna asked his wife Satyabhama, the reincarnation of Bhudevi, to be his charioteer in the battle with Naraka. When due to a bow hit by Naraka, Krishna got fainted; Satyabhama got angry and hit Naraka with a bow.

This ended the rein of brutalities by Naraka. The incident not only marked the end of Naraka, but also gave a lesson that parents should not hesitate to punish their children when they stray on to the wrong path.

Deepawali Rituals

Tradition of Playing Cards

It is a very old tradition to play cards on the day of Diwali. It is not only for fun and frolic but has religious significance as well.

Especially in Hindus, it is believed that gambling with money would impress goddess of wealth (Godddess Lakshmi) and bring prosperity for the coming year.

It has a mythological connection as well. It is believed that on this day goddess Lakshmi played dice with her husband Shiva.

At the end of the game she had announced that whoever will play with money on this day, will prosper throughout the year. The tradition is followed till date, with it being slowly recognized as a means of get-together.

Tradition of Crackers:

Diwali is celebrated across India with great devotion and happiness. It commemorates the superiority of good over evil.

Since time immemorial one tradition that has been associated with the festivities of Diwali is the bursting of Crackers.

Rangoli:

Rangoli is an art form which includes drawing of attractive patterns on the floor, with different colors and decorative ideas.Rangloi has long been a part of Diwali celebrations.

On and before Diwali, people especially ladies make beautiful designs of Rangolis to welcome goddess Lakshmi. According to the history of Rangolis, the tradition started in Mahrashtra, which later spread to other parts of the country.

The legend behind rangoli is that a particular kingdom was in deep sorrow due to the death of the son of a priest. Entire kingdom prayed to Lord Brahma, who pleased by the prayers asked the king to draw a figure on the ground, in which he would fill life.

The king did as asked. To everyone’s surprise, the son was reborn. Since then Rangoli became very popular. These Rangolis are based on different themes. Some of the common themes are:

• Dancing figures
• Birds
• Flowers
• Swastik
• Human Figures
• Chakra
• Stars
• Geometrical figures.

Tradition of gifts:

Exchange of Gifts is an integral part of all Indian festivals. On the day of Diwali, people generally worship goddess Lakshmi, light their houses with lamps and exchange gifts with their friends and relatives.

Markets are full of buyers and all shopkeepers; specially those of sweet shops offer their best varieties and see maximum sales. To dress up in new clothes and visit one’s relatives is a major attraction to everybody on Diwali.

Tradition of Lights:

Diwali also known as “Festival of Lights” justifies its name as wherever one goes on that day, there is an illumination of lights and the atmosphere is filled with brightness. Traditionally it was only the oil lamps that were used, but these days many types of candles and lamps are available for this purpose.

According to the Hindu Mythology, on this day Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya and the entire kingdom was lighted up by oil lamps. This tradition has been one of the most important ingredients of Diwali celebrations.

Celebration in India

Diwali or Deepawali is celebrated across India with great enthusiasm. This is one festival which units the entire country as most of the rituals observed are similar in most parts of the country. Historically speaking, Lord Rama while returning to Ayodhya, traveled from South towards North.

Thus, Diwali is celebrated one day before in southern India. Called the festivals of light, entire country is lighted up, with everyone merrily lighting up their houses and localities. As part of the Celebration goddess Lakshmi is worshipped, thus, it is also known as festival of wealth and prosperity.

Diwali is a five day festival, with each day having its own significance. The third day is called the “Badi Diwali”, which observes the worship of goddess Lakshmi, lightening of crackers, playing cards, making Rangolis, exchange of gifts and greetings. Although the basic rituals remain same, yet there are many variations in different parts of the country as far as celebrations are concerned.

Rajasthan

Diwali is one of the most popular festivals in the state of Rajasthan, which is known for its fairs and festivals.

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The enthusiasms with which people celebrate these festivals in Rajasthan elaborate on their zest and passion towards the importance of this festival.

A common routine on Diwali includes decorating of one’s homes, buying new clothes, visiting to relatives’ place and organizing mass gatherings.

People of Rajasthan are known for their love for food. Ladies indulge themselves in preparation of delicacies like Mawa Kachori, Til Ke Laddo, Gonth ke Laddu, Piste ke Launj, Moti Pak, Pheeni, Sohan Papdi, Besan Barfi, Jalebi, Shakarpara- to name just a few.

Himachal Pradesh

Celebration of Diwali in Himachal Pradesh includes preparation that starts days before. The mud walls are cleaned and painted with cow-dung. The courtyard is then painted in shapes of red and black squares. These squares contain images of animals and birds.

Flower garlands are then used to decorate houses. The significance of this decoration of houses is the belief that goddess Lakshmi enters the house which is neat and decorated. At dusk, oil lamps are lighted in remembrance of the ancestors.

West Bengal

Goddess Kali is worshipped in Bengal on the festival of Diwali. The lamps lit are in honor of Goddess Kali and her power to destroy all evils.

As against other parts of the country, Diwali is a three day festival in Bengal, with the first two days being of utmost importance. During the first two days feasting, drinking, gambling, family gatherings, lights and fire crackers occupying time from dusk to dawn.

In West Bengal, Lakshmi puja is celebrated five days after Dussehra, on the full moon day (Purnima). On the following new moon day (Amavasya), coinciding with Diwali, goddess Kali is worshiped.

Uttar Pradesh

In Uttar Pradesh, the city of Varanasi, celebrates the festival of Diwali in a very holy manner. Devotees and tourists gather at the various ghats of Varanasi, to light lamps, have holy bath and indeed be a part of this spectacular event.

The state needs to be given credit for the fact that it has maintained its traditions and customs wrapped and protected from alienation.

Punjab

Punjab as a state is synonymous with fervour, zeal, and emotions. The tradition to light lamps on Diwali is a way to pay obedience to god for the attainment for peace, prosperity, health and knowledge.

In Punjab, Diwali preparation begin much in advance as people start to clean and decorate their houses with rangoli.For the state of Punjab and Sikhs, the festival of Diwali marks the anniversary of Guru Hargobinji, who was released from jail on this day.

The Golden temple of Amritsar is well illuminated with lamps and the atmosphere seems beautiful with the shadow of the lamps being reflected in water with the voice of prayers falling on everyone’s ears.

Celebration across the world

In the present scenario with Indians being established in various places around the world and the tradition of India being widely popular, more and more people have started to enjoy and celebrate Indian festivals with great vigour.

Not only the Indians settled abroad, but, even the natives of different origin have developed a respect for the sanctity of Indian culture, rituals and traditions. Diwali celebrations across different countries are:

In Britain

Today Indians number around one and a half Million in UK, making them the single largest ethnic minority in Britain.

Although every Indian settled abroad misses his homeland, yet, people try to feel at home and in connect with the tradition and culture of India by celebrating Festivals with the same enthusiasm and excitement as any other Indian would do.

They visit temples, clean and decorate their houses, make sweets at home, buy new clothes, and offer prayers and Prasad to the lord. The lamps and Diyas lighted produce a very home-like atmosphere for them

Guyana

Guyana is located in the north Eastern coast of South America. The population of Hindus amount to about 33 % of the total population.

The festival of Diwali is very important in Guyana as it is observed as the National holiday of Guyana.

Although most of the rituals observed in Guyana is similar to that in India, but they hold specific significance for the people out there.

For Example, the tradition of exchanging sweets indicate the importance of sharing and that of greetings show the necessity to establish goodwill among each other.

They pay special importance to wearing of new clothes on Diwali as it indicates that healty minds reside in healthy bodies.

Nepal

Diwali is termed as Tihar in Nepal, which is a multi-cultured and multi-lingual country. Nepal is a land-locked country, in the foothills of Himalyas.

Most of the traditions observed here are similar to that in India.In Nepal, there is a different ritual associated with each of the five days of Diwali celebration. On the first day, they worship cows and feed them with rice.

The second day is dedicated to dogs and special food materials are prepared for them. Third day is meant for lighting of lamps and burning of crackers. The fourth day is dedicated to Yama, to whom prayers are offered for long life.The final fifth day is Bhaiya Dooj and is dedicated to brothers.

Diwali - Five day Festival

Diwali is one festival that has always united cultures, customs and religions in the flow of its celebrations. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm, joy, devotion, excitement, emotion not only in India but in most parts of the world.

There are age old customs, traditions and rituals associated with it, that have still maintained their significance in the hearts of people. Diwali is a five day festival, with each day having its own significance, customs, rituals and legends associated with it.

This celebration starts from the day of Dhanteras and extends till the final day of Bhai dooj.

The celebration of Diwali includes wearing new clothes, preparation of delicacies, offering prayers, exchange of gifts, decorating houses and localities, organizing get-togethers and many attractions that brings the entire family together. The five days, with their respective rituals are:

First day

The first day of Diwali is called the Dhanteras or Dhantryaodashi. According to the Hindu calendar it falls on the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksh in the month of Kartik.

Goddess lakshmi or god of wealth is worshipped on this day, and there is a special significance of Dhanteras for the business community it symbolizes new year for them.

Markets are flooded with buyers as it is considered very auspicious to but new clothes and jewellary on this day.

Second day

The second day of Narka-Chaturdashi or Chhoti Diwali is the eve of Diwali.It falls on the fourteenth day in the month of Kartik and celebrates the death of demon Naraksura by Lord Krishna. The day has a significance of bringing rays of joy and fading of all sorts of negativities.

Legend behind Chhoti Diwali:

Mythologically, there was a demon king Narakasur, who won a war with deities and imprisoned 16,000 daughters of various Gods. He even dared to snatch the earings of Mother Goddess Aditi, who was like a mother to all Gods and Goddess. Angered with this cruel act of Narakasur, Satyabhama, Lord Krishna’s wife decided to kill him.She freed the imprisoned 16,000 daughters and Goddess mother Aditi. Shri Krishna later married all those daughters who were captivated by Narakasura, and on this day of Chhoti Diwali returned home.

Rituals:

There is a custom of taking early bath with rose petals in water and undertake oil massage to relax the body. Majorly, the day is utilized in shopping and preparation of sweets.

Third day

It is known as “Badi Diwali”, and there is a tradition to worship Goddess Lakshmi after sunset on this day. People decorate their houses and offer prayers in order to welcome Goddess Lakshmi to their houses.It is known as “festivals of light” as mythologically, on this day Lord Rama had returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and rescuing of his wife Sita from the clutches of demon king Ravana.Oil lamps are lighted throughout the house and streets. This day is observed as a National holiday throughout India and many other countries.

Fourth day

It is known as Govardhan Puja or Padwa. This day celebrates the incident of Lord Krishna lifting mount Goverdhan. It is customary to prepare a small mount of mud and decorate it with flowers and other accessories.

Fifth Day

The final day of Diwali celebration is called the “Bhai Dooj”. On this day, sisters apply tika on the forehead of their brothers and brothers in return bless their sisters and promise to protect them throughout life. It is a very sacred day for all brothers and sisters.

Diwali Pooja Process

Badi Deepavali / Lakshmi Puja

In the month of Karthik, on Amaavasya day Badi Deepavali is celebrated. On this day Shri Ram, Lakshman, Sita Mata returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile after defeating Ravana.

The whole city was lit with deepaks to welcome them. The Vaishyas, the business community start their new year on this day.

People celebrate by wearing new clothes, decorating the house, exchanging gifts, playing cards and bursting firecrackers. New clothes, gifts and sweets are sent to the households of the married sisters and daughters.

At sunset puja is performed to Shri Ganeshji, Lakshmiji, Kuberji and the Navagrahas. The Idol of Lakshmiji is kept on the right side of one idol of Ganeshji, as Lakshmiji considered to be a mother of Shri Ganesh.

The women of the house observe a vrat/fast for Lakshmiji. Food is eaten after Lakshmiji darshan that is after sighting a lit deepak in someone else's house.

Items required for Lakshmi Puja at home

• 11/21/31/101 silver coins (every year puja is performed to the same silver coins)
• One gold coin optional. In some houses people add the silver coins on which the puja was done on the hoti Deepavali day. In some houses puja is done separately with different coins on Choti Deepavali and separate coins on Badi Deepavali.21/31 clay deepaks for the puja thali. Set a few extra deepaks aside to be placed around the house.
• One four wick clay deepak, one clay dhoop daani, one clay kajlota (a clay pot to make kaajal)
• Few wax deepaks to place around the house
• Sarson /til oil, coal for dhoop daani, cotton wicks, matchsticks
• 1 large plate thali (any metal) to place all deepaks
• 1 small plate (any metal) to place the silver coins
• Fresh unboiled milk, roli, chawal, colgate powder, new tooth brush
• Ganeshji and Lakshmiji photo which was used for Choti Deepavali, gota for decoration of the photo. New photo is used every year for puja.
• Clay idols of Lakshmiji, Ganeshji and photo bought on Dhanteras day are adorned with new clothes: dhoti and dupatta for Ganeshji and ghagra and odni for Lakshmiji
• Bright coloured silk cloth pieces to spread over the chowki and for covering the plates containing the silver coins
• Sweets made on Choti Deepavali — laddoo, petha, suhali and bujiya are placed in a thali to be used as a prasad both for Shri Lakshmi puja and Govardhan puja
• Five laddoos set aside on a plate ·as an offering to Lakshmiji
• Water in a small kalash
• One large wooden chowki for placing all the puja items
• One peedha/stool kept aside for Lakshmiji to sit on
• Roll and chawal at two places; one for puja and one for family members' tilak
• A box of dhoop, agarbathi, a banana to be used as agarbathi stand
• Flower garland, loose flowers and lotus flowers for Lakshmiji
• Keep aside some additional wicks and sarson oil with a spoon for refilling deepaks
• Thali for aarti
• Hand towels and spreads for people to sit

Preparations to be made in the morning for the Lakshmi Puja in the evening

• In the morning after a bath, wear new clothes
• Seek blessings from the elders of the house
• Puja items for the office puja are sent to the office (refer to the list on Page 74). Lakshmi puja in the office is performed on Deepavali day before sunset.
• Silver coins, gold coin are soaked in the vessel with milk, water and roli.
• Silver idols of Lakshmiji and Ganeshji from the puja room are bathed with milk.
• Scrub the coins with roli and rinse them with water. Any stains on the coin can be removed with the Colgate powder.
• In a plate put a silk scarf and place the gold and silver coins face up.
• Decorate the Lakshmiji and Ganeshji photo with gota.
• Decorate the clay idols of Lakshmiji and Ganeshji with clothes.

Setting up for the Evening Lakshmi Puja

• Place the large wooden chowki against the wall bearing in mind that while performing the puja we are facing east and cover it with a bright coloured cloth. Place the following on the chowki:
• Lakshmiji and Ganeshji photo
• Clay idols of Lakshmiji and Ganeshji
• Both the silver plates containing the coins from Choti and Badi Deepavali
• Silver idols from the puja room
• In a large thali, place 4 wick Deepak at the center and 21 /31 deepaks around it, ready with oil and wicks.
• In a small plate place the dhoop daani with lit coals
• Insert agarbathis in the banana/agarbathi stand
• On a plate set aside 5 laddoos for Lakshmiji
• All kinds of sweets along with a glass of water are kept
• Roli and chawal are kept in two places
• Loose flowers and flower garland are kept in a basket
• In a bowl additional oil with a spoon and more wicks are kept along with matchsticks
• Kajlota, dhoop and dhoop daani are kept
• Towels for wiping hands
• Peedha/low stool for Lakshimiji. lt is believed that during the puja Laksmiji will sit on the the peedha (refer to katha)
• Decorate the whole house with deepaks of clay and wax deepaks after sunset
• Puja can be performed both before or alter having your evening meal

Evening Lakshmi Puja

Perform puia by applying roli to photos and clay idols of Lakshmiji and Ganeshfi and to the silver and gold coins

Deepaks on the thali are lit

Laddoos are offered

Flowers are offered

Agarbathi, dhoop is shown

Either the eldest woman of the house or the unmarried young girl applies tilak to the family members

Pranam is done to the idols, to the mother-in-law and to the elders in the family

Token money is given to the mother-in-law by touching her feet

After the family members and the staff perform puja. Leave the 4 wicks lamp and 7 clay deepaks in the thali. Place the remaining deepaks at various locations in the house: in the puja room, next to the tulsi plant, in the kitchen, where the water container is kept outside the bedrooms.

Outside the entrance gate, 7 + 7 deepaks are placed with the wicks facing each other

A person is made to sleep in the puja room to ensure that the flame is kept alive by continuously pouring oil.

Note: After the Govardhan puia the next day, the clay idols and chitra are stored in the puja room. Silver coins are placed back in the safe (puja is done to the same silver coins every year). The previous year’s clay idols and photos are immersed in the water.

Items Required For Office Lakshmi Puja

Idols of Shri Ganeshji, Lakshmiji

Photo of Shri Ganeshii & Lakshmiji

Red, white cloth 3 pieces 1 mtr each

Silk cloth 1 mtr

Gents — dhoti, towel

Women- saree, blouse piece

2 Janeu

Packet of 5 stones (Panch ratan)

1 copper or silver small pot (lota)

Panchamrut, milk, gangajal

Roll, moli, paan, supari

Clay dhoop daani

Cloves, cardamom

Shriphal/coconut

Loose flowers, garlands

Batasha

Kamal gatta (pod of the lotus flower)

Tulsi, durva (tender green grass)

Belpatr, Bel fruit

Mango leaves, fruits

Panch meva (five types of dry fruits mixed)

Mishri (crystallised sugar), jaggery

Dhaan, khoi (puffed wheat)

Sugarcane

Kesar (saffron), karpoor (camphor)

Sandalwood

Gulal, abhir, sindoor

Yellow mustard seeds, turmeric

Dhania

Dhoop, agarbathi

Laddoo. Peda

Aasan, pata (broad wooden stool)

Itr (perfume bottle)

Kalash (metal pot)

Sakura (clay bowl)

Rice, wheat

Oil, deepak. choumukh deepak

Cotton wool, wicks, matchsticks

Pen, Ink pot

Thali (big plate)

Utensils for puja

Silver plate and bowl

Sutli (thick thread)

Money for offering

Accounts books (bahikhata)

Red cloth with which the bahikhata is tied

Laddno, Perla

Significance

The festival of Diwali is the most important festival for Hindus. But, the festival is celebrated even by Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists. It has different reasons of significance for all these communities

In Hinduism

The festival is associated with home-coming of Lord Rama, in honor of whom the kingdom of Ayodhya was all lit up with oil lamps and earthen pots. The festival marks the victory of good over evil and numerous rituals are observed to celebrate this auspicious day.

In Jainism

Diwali marks the attainment of Nirvana by Lord Mahavira.

In Sikhism

The festival of Diwali is significant in accordance with the illumination of the city of Amritsar, on the homecoming of Guru Har Gobind ji. Guru Har Gobind ji, along with many Hindu gurus were imprisoned by Emperor Jahangir.

After he got free from the prison, he went to the golden temple in Amritsar. The entire city of Amritsar was lit with lamps on that day and is celebrated on Diwali.

The festival of Diwali is also celebrated by some sections of Buddhists.

Diwali recipes

Diwali is a festival to be grateful to God for showering his blessings upon us and to express Love and care for the loved ones. It is a common tradition to visit the places of worship and relatives and friends houses on the day of Diwali. As Diwali is a five day festival it is often seen that these get togethers spread across these five days.

Ladies engage themselves in preparing various kinds of sweets, snacks and other recipes. Sweets like Besan-ka-ladoo, Gajar-ka-halwa, Gulab-jamun are very popular.

Along with sweets there are some popular snacks that are very easy to prepare and look good to serve on the festival of Diwali. Mentioned below are some popular sweets and snacks’ recipes.

• Gulab Jamun
• Besan-ke-ladoo
• Shakkarpare
• Dahi-Bade
• Ghathia

Gift Ideas

Diwali is a festival to be grateful to God for showering his blessings upon us and to express Love and care for the loved ones. It is a common tradition to visit the places of worship and relatives and friends houses on the day of Diwali. As Diwali is a five day festival it is often seen that these get togethers spread across these five days.

Exchanging gifts is not only a part of tradition but a source of happiness and excitement to people of all ages. Gifts on Diwali are not only exchanged among close relatives and friends, but, corporate gifts are also very popular these days. The kind of gift depends on many factors right from the purpose of Gifting, the kind of relation, likes and dislikes of the person to be gifted to.

Although there are many types of gifts available in the market, to choose among them is not an easy task. Ideally, any gift that is given as a greeting present should be well thought of. While, gifting the near and dear ones, their age, likes and dislikes should surely be kept in mind. In case of corporate gifts the vision of the company should always be borne in mind, and should be of high quality.

Some of the most popular, widely appreciate and easily available gift ideas are as follows:

Diwali Chocolates

Different types and varieties of chocolates are available in the markets these days. Chocolates always remain one of the best gifting options for any age,specially for kids.

It is also a ready to gift idea as there is no need to pack them to give a presentable look and feel. Although, these days many decorated and finely packed chocolates are available in the market, one can pick up any good brand of chocolate.

Silver coins and accessories

It is considered very auspicious to buy and gift silver accessories on the festival of Diwali. Goddess Lakshmi is worshiped and people find means to welcome goddess of wealth and prosperity on Diwali.Many silver accessories are now available in the market that can be bought and gifted.

Diwali sweets

Sweets are not only used for the purpose of gifting but forms an integral part of puja preparation. Although most of the sweets are available across the year, many sweet sellers prepare some exotic variety of sweets especially for Diwali. Most of the shops are flooded with customers and offer a vast variety of sweets to attract people.

Diwali dry fruits

Dry fruits have always been regarded as an exquisite gift in India.

Earlier gifting dry fruits meant only a pack of dry-fruits, but, these days beautifully decorated and well packed dry. Fruits are available in the market.

Diwali candles

Diwali is more popularly known as “The Festivals of Light”. It is a common ritual to light oil lamps on the Diwali Day. To gift candles is one of the best gifting ideas for Diwali, as it would very precisely signify Festivals of Lights. Candles are also considered to be very auspicious as a gift.

Diwali paintings

Paintings have always been widely accepted gift idea for all sorts of occasion. While gifting a painting on Diwali, one must observe that the theme and color scheme reflects Indian tradition. One of the best form of painting to be gifted on Diwali is that of Lord Ganesha, in various postures.

Diwali devotional gifts

Wooden Ganesha, a Silver Coin, Ram temple, idols of Ganesh Lakshmi are some of the possible Diwali Devotional gifts. These gifts are widely appreciated in all Indian families till date. With the passage of time, many forms and variation sin these gifts are also becoming popular and accepted.

Office Accessories

These days corporate gift culture is very much in trend. Employees to employers and employers to Employees often gift some unique Diwali apparel as a token of greetings. Also, these gifts are exchanged between different organizations. Flower pot, Pen stand, Executive diary, Table lamp are some of the possible and descent Diwali Corporate gifts .

Home Decorations

Since ages, cleaning and decorating homes on the occasion of Diwali has been very popular. Ladies generally buy few accessories and decorative products to

decorate their houses. To gift any home decoration item like Bed sheets, Bed cover, Cushion cover, Paintings, wall hangings etc is a very good idea.

Gadgets

Youth generally prefers to receive some trendy gadgets as a present or gift as a part of any occasion greeting. Mobiles, I pods, Digital Photo frames, MP3 player, Home theatre, Digital watch etc are some of the most popular gadgets and are highly appreciated by young people.

Decorative Items

Diwali is a festival of lights, crackers, prayers, gifts, cleanliness and beautification. It is a common belief that decorating and cleaning of one’s houses, shops, localities and streets would please Goddess Lakhsmi who would then bless that area.

Many days before Diwali ladies clean their houses and decorate them. Although today there is an infinite range of products available in the markets for this purpose, it is always very special to make these things at home as home-made things give a very personalized feel. Some ideas to make Exquisite decorative pieces at home are:

Diyas

Diyas are the most integral part of Diwali celebrations. Originally only circular Diyas were popular and used. These days’ different shapes and sizes of Diyas are available in the market. Diya is an oil lamp made out of clay. One can get different shaped diyas from the market and decorate them.

Golden colored paint can be used to paint them, which makes it look very auspicious. Mirrors, laces, beads can be put on the outer surface of the Diya.

Pooja Thali

Pooja is the most important part of any festival in India. Pooja cannot be imagined without a Pooja thali. Instead of using plain silver or steel thalis, one can decorate them to give it more traditional and colorful feel.These days different shapes of Thalis are available in the market, which give a modern feel to the same tradition. Essential ingredients for a thali constitute Roli, Chawal, Bells, and Kalash for water, a diya, incense sticks and Silver coins.

Chunari print materials can be used to cover the thalis, along with laces, sequence, beeds, ghunguru that can be used to decorate the edges of the thali.

Door Hangings

Torans or Bandhanvar is the most popular and colorful tool for Diwali decoration. These door hangings can be used to decorate the main entrance of the house, the temple inside, the entrance of different rooms and give the whole house a very auspicious look and feel on Diwali.

Diwali Candles

One of the most popular decorative ideas these days is the use of candles. An infinite variety of these candles is available today. Different shapes depicting animals, flowers, birds, popular figures etc are in vogue. Also, scented candles with variety of flavors are popular. A number of candles can be used to depict some overall theme in the house; it would not only look trendy but give a feel of warmth and creativity as well.

Rangolis

A rangoli is an art form that involves the drawing and coloring of varied shapes on the floor. Drawing Rangoli is not only a tradition that is followed on Diwali, but a very interesting decorative idea which can be extended to any level of creativity and give one’s house a very auspicious look and feel.

Flower Decoration

The use of flowers or garlands to decorate houses is a very old custom, but, the ambience it provides to the atmosphere is incomparable. Till date, flowers are the surest and best way of creative decorations, be it any function. The main entrance can be covered by these flowers giving a very welcoming feel to the guests. The Pooja area, the entrance of different rooms can be conveniently covered with garlands of different colored flowers. One can pluck petals of these flowers to sprinkle them at various locations.

Lamps and Lights

Using a good and innovative lightning effect is a very trendy idea. Diffused lightning, effect producing lamps, Color scheme produced by them can be used to give a lasting and innovative look to the complete ambience.

Diwali messages

Diwali “The Festival of Lights” is an occasion for family and friends to get closer, be united to celebrate and share happiness.Earlier Diwali wishes were sent through Cards and inland letters. These days with growing communication facilities, greetings are shared through emails and sms messages on Mobile phones.

Although one wants to say a lot while writing a greeting, yet one finds difficult to culminate thoughts into words. To make the festival of Diwali remembrable following are some greeting messages that can be used in sms, emails, or verbal greetings for friends and relatives.Diwali Message

May This Diwali be as bright as ever.

May this Diwali bring joy, health and wealth to you.

May the festival of lights brighten up you and your near and dear ones lives.

May this Diwali bring in u the most brightest and choicest happiness and love you have ever Wished for.

May this Diwali bring you the utmost in peace and prosperity.

May lights triumph over darkness.

May peace transcend the earth.

May the spirit of light illuminate the world.

May the light that we celebrate at Diwali show us the way and lead us together on the path of peace and social harmony

As the candlelight flame,

Ur life may always be happiness' claim;

As the mountain high,

U move without sigh;

like the white linen flair,

Purity is always an affair;

As sunshine creates morning glory,

fragrance fills years as flory;

with the immaculate eternal smile,

attached to u mile after mile;

All darkness is far away,

As light is on its way;

Wish all of u a very happy diwali.

May the festival of lights be the harbinger of joy and prosperity. As the holy occasion of Diwali is here and the atmosphere is filled with the spirit of mirth and love, here's hoping this festival of beauty brings your way, bright sparkles of contentment, that stay with you through the days ahead. Best wishes on Diwali and New year.

There's always something warm and bright, about this time of the year, when everything has a special glow, and hearts are full of cheer, that's why, this special greeting comes your way, to wish you all life's best, on Diwali and in the coming year, too.

Diwali ke Is Mangal Avsar par,

Aap Sabhi ki Manokamna Puri ho,

Khushiyan Apke Kadam Chume,

Isi Kamna ke Saath aap Sabhi ko,

Diwali ki Dhero Badhaiyan.

Jagmag Thali Sajao,

Mangal Deepo ko Jalao,Apne Gharo aur Dilo main Asha ki Kiran Jagao,

Khushali aur Samridhi se bhara ho apka jeevan,

Isi Kamna ke Saath Shubh Deepawali.

May the beauty

Of deepavali season

Fill your home with

Happiness,

And may the coming year

Provide you with all

That bring you joy!

Aai aai diwali aai,

Saath me kitni khushiyan layi,

Dhoom machao, mauz manao,

Aap sabhi ko diwali ki badhai.

Happy Diwali.

Peace

Prosperity

Good Fortune

May the blessings of the Lord be with you..

today and in the coming years Subh Deepavali.

Diwali is about bonding, of ritual, of a belief that that good will always triumph over evil for dark night must always make way for morning light.

Diwali Songs Lyrics

Any Indian Festival is incomplete without the spice and aura created by music. Diwali, is one of the biggest and most widely celebrated Hindu Festival. It is celebrated not only in India, but in many countries outside India as well.

Over the years many artists have gifted some amazing and melodious songs for the occasion of Diwali. Many of the Indian films have had special songs dedicated to the festival of Diwali.

Find below a list of some of the most popular, widely heard, and greatly admired Hindi songs that have over the years provided a wonderful atmosphere for the festival of Diwali.

These songs can be played on Diwali, sent on cards to loved ones or used in many other ways to give this Festival of Lights a melodious and rememberable touch.

Hindi Song Title :- Aayi Hai Diwali

Hindi Movie/Album Name :-Aamdani Atthani Kharcha Rupaiya

Singer(s) :- Udit Narayan, Kumar Sanu, Shaan, Alka Yagnik, Sneha Pant, Ketki Dave

Hindi Lyrics :-

Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Oh Mere Sajna

Fatakda Phoot Ne Wala Hai De Taali

Aayi Hai Diwali Suno Ji Gharwaali

Aayi Hai Diwali Suno Ji Gharwaali

Tere Kangane Ne Dil Dhadkaya Hai

Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra

Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra

Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai

Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai

Aayi Hai Diwali Suno Ji Gharwaali

Tere Kangane Ne Dil Dhadkaya Hai

Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Sajna Paglaaya Hai

Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Sajna Paglaaya Hai

Tera Singaar Laga Bahar Aaya Re

Aaya Tujhpe Hum Ko Pyaar

Mardo Ka Kya Bedardo Ka Kya

Kya Jaano Tum Kya Hota Hai Pyaar

Kyon Bhala Hum Kare Tum Pe Aitbaar

Bhole Hoton Ki Laali Dole Kaano Ki Baali

Teri Chunri Ne Jalwa Dikhaya Hai

Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra

Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra

Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai

Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai

Charo Taraf Diye Jal Rahe

Dehko Ji Dekho Yeh Kya Keh Rahe

Kahin Pe Nigahein Kahin Pe Nishana

Hum Jaante Hai Yeh Kissa Purana

Na Karo Dillagi Chhodo Sataana

Tu Yeh Maane Na Maane Hum Hai Tere Dewaane

Dekho Mausam Mohabbat Ka Aaya Hai

Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra

Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra

Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai

Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai

Yaaro Meri Maano Miya Biwi Ke Rishte Ko Jaano

Pyaaro Oh Mere Pyaaro Kya Hai Jeevan Tum Yeh Pehchano

Chhodo Chhodo Chhodo Takraar Karlo Karlo Karlo Pyaar

Oh Chayi Nakhrewali Gharwaali Hai Gharwaali

Oh Chayi Nakhrewali Gharwaali Hai Gharwaali

Sara Sansaar Is Mein Samaya Hai

Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra

Lage Sajna Mera Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra

Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai

Lage Sajna Mera Aaj Paglaaya Hai

Aayi Hai Diwali Suno Ji Gharwaali

Tere Kangane Ne Dil Dhadkaya Hai

Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Sajna Paglaaya Hai

Aa Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Sajna Paglaaya Hai

Hindi Song Title :- Lakhon Tare Aasman Mein

Hindi Movie/Album Name :- Hariyali Aur Rasta

Singer(s) :- Mukesh, Lata Mangeshkar

Hindi Lyrics :-

Mukesh: Lakhon tare, aasman mein, ek magar dhoondhe na mila

Dekhke duniya ki diwali, dil mera chupchaap jala,

Dil mera chupchaap jala

Lata: Lakhon tare, aasman mein, ek magar dhoondhe na mila

Ek magar dhoondhe na mila

Mukesh: Qismat ka hai, naam magar hai, kum hai yeh duniya waalon ka

Phoonk diya hai chaman humare khwaabon aur khayalon ka

Ji karta hai khud hi ghonth de, apne armaano ka gala

Dekhke duniya ki diwali, dil mera chupchaap jala,

Dil mera chupchaap jala

Lata: Sau-sau sadiyon se lambi yeh, ghum ki raat nahin dhalti

Is andhiyaare ke aage ab, ayi dil ek nahin chalti

Hanste hi lut gayi chaandni, aur uthte hi chaand dhalaa

Dekhke duniya ki diwali, dil mera chupchaap jala,

Dil mera chupchaap jala

Mukesh: Maut hai behtar is haalat se, naam hai jiska majboori

Lata: Kaun musaafir tay kar paaya, dil se dil ki yeh doori

Mukesh: Kaantho hi kaantho se guzra, jo raahi is raah chala

Dekhke duniya ki diwali, dil mera chupchaap jala,

Dil mera chupchaap jala

Lata: Lakhon tare, aasman mein, ek magar dhoondhe na mila

Dekhke duniya ki diwali, dil mera chupchaap jala,

Dil mera chupchaap jala

Diwali Celebration Days

Diwali is one of the most important, widely celebrated Hindu Festival. It is popularly known as “Festival of Lights”, as lighting of oil lamps is one of the most important ritual associated with Diwali, initially called as “Dipavali”.

According to the Hindu Mythology, this day is associated with Lord Rama coming back to Ayodhya after serving 14 years of exile. The people of Ayodhya welcomed Rama with oil lamps being lighted across the nook and corner of Ayodhya. This day marks the victory of “Good over Evil”.

Some of the rituals associated with the festival are lighting of oil lamps, burning crackers, offering prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, and exchanging sweets among relatives and friends.

According to the Hindu calendar, the festival of Diwali is celebrated on the new moon day that marks the end of Ashwin and beginning of Kartik month.