Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of India’s most beloved celebrations — yet its meaning and rituals shift beautifully across different parts of India, reflecting the country’s vast cultural diversity.
Though united by the glow of lamps and the spirit of renewal, each part of India tells a different story through its Diwali.
The Return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya
In North India, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile and his victory over Ravana. Homes are decorated with rows of earthen lamps to welcome him, and fireworks light up the sky in celebration of good triumphing over evil.
The day before is observed as Chhoti Diwali or Narak Chaturdashi, recalling Krishna’s defeat of the demon Narakasura, and Bhoot Chaturdashi in Bengal, when fourteen lamps are lit to honour departed ancestors.
Honouring Goddess Lakshmi and New Beginnings
In Western India, especially in Gujarat and Maharashtra, Diwali is closely tied to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Businessmen close their annual accounts and open new ledgers, praying for success in the coming year.
In the South, the focus is on Narakasura’s defeat by Krishna and Satyabhama, symbolising the end of arrogance and darkness. Early morning oil baths, new clothes, and festive sweets mark the day.
Meanwhile, in Bengal and eastern India, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja — the worship of Goddess Kali, the fierce form of Shakti who destroys evil and ignorance.
Interestingly, while Bengalis perform Kali Puja, many from western Bengal or “Ghoti” communities observe “Olokkhi Pujo,” a ritual meant to ward off misfortune and appease the goddess of scarcity.
Beyond Hindu traditions, Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Diwas, commemorating Guru Hargobind’s release from imprisonment, while Jains observe Dipalikaya, marking Lord Mahavira’s nirvana.
Thus, Diwali is not one story but a constellation of many — a festival where lamps illuminate not just homes, but the rich spiritual diversity of India itself.
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