Deepavali, often called Diwali, is a worldwide celebration of a Hindu festival, showing the culture and history of the nation. The meaning of Deepavali is "a series of lights." You can see lamps and lights arranged artistically in homes, businesses, streets, and temples on Diwali. The celebration of Diwali is said to bring happiness into people's lives and drive out their difficulties, much like the lights in a gloomy environment.
The celebration of Diwali dates back to ancient times in India and Nepal. Due to the migration of Indian-origin people to other countries, the festival gained widespread popularity and a prominent place in neighboring countries like Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, the USA, the Maldives, Indonesia, and many others. According to the Gregorian calendar, Diwali falls between mid-October and mid-November.
In India, though Diwali is a national festival, the method of celebration varies from state to state. There are several legends relating to this festival, and based on the legends, the customs and traditions may differ accordingly. The commonality is preparation, shopping for new clothes and crackers, and the joy of celebration. People of all practices believe Diwali brings prosperity and harmony to their family, which is the reason behind all the celebrations performed around the goddess Lakshmi.
In Tamil Nadu, the celebration of Diwali marks the culmination of the demon Narakasura by Lord Vishnu. It indirectly reinstates the bottom line of Hinduism: that when we surrender ourselves at the Lord’s feet, He will save us from all evil.
People start cleaning their place of stay one week before Diwali. They start decorating their houses and surroundings, and the children are curiously awaiting the new dresses, sweets, and crackers. People consider starting their new accounts on this auspicious day for the flourishing year ahead. People visit their families and friends to share the delicacies.
Ultimately, Diwali is a dazzling festival that brings people together and overcomes the barriers of evil, grudges, and greed. Celebrating Diwali is a way of rejuvenating relationships among friends and families.