Diwali Festival of Lights is undoubtedly one of India's most cherished and grandest celebrations. As the sun sets on Diwali nights, they come alive with the warm radiance of innumerable candles, earthen Diyas, and oil lamps. Fireworks illuminate the skies, adding to the auspicious Diwali festivities. Homes are adorned with intricate light displays, vibrant rangoli creations, and the joyful exchange of gifts and sweets. Beyond its profound cultural and religious significance, Diwali is a powerful symbol of triumph over darkness, as it coincides with Kartik Amavasya, the darkest night on the Hindu calendar. Lighting Diyas and lamps is a powerful testament to this victory over darkness.
When it comes to decorating the house for the Diwali festival of lights, the possibilities are boundless, and the inclusion of candles and Diyas only serves to enhance the festival's beauty. The gentle glow of candles, accompanied by their soothing fragrances, adds an extra layer of enchantment to the festive atmosphere. Scented candles, in particular, introduce a sense of serenity, elevating the Diwali experience. These candles not only captivate through their fragrance but also with their elegant glass designs.
The History Behind The Diwali Festival of Lights
Diwali holds immense significance in Hindu culture as it is the only festival mentioned in Ramayana and the Mahabharata. We all are aware of the return of Lord Rama, the revered deity, to his home in Ayodhya after a 14-year exile alongside his wife, Sita Mata, and his devoted brother, Shri Laxman Ji. To welcome them, the people of Ayodhya and the entire city adorned their surroundings with beautiful oil lamps, or Diyas, illuminating the path for their beloved Lord's return.
For those who may not know, on Diwali, the five Pandava brothers went into exile due to their unfortunate defeat in a deceitful game of dice played against the clever Kauravas. After their 12 years of exile, they finally returned home with their wife, Draupadi, on a moonless night known as Kartik Amavasya. When their dear ones receive news of their return, they light up their path with clay lamps, or earthen Diyas, to welcome them back.
Another crucial aspect of Diwali involves the worship of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Laxmi. In Hindu tradition, Lord Ganesha is worshipped as the “Deva” who removes obstacles, and it's customary to seek his blessings before embarking on any auspicious journey. This practice reflects the belief that invoking his grace ensures a smooth and obstacle-free path in all undertakings. Mata Laxmi, on the other hand, is known as the goddess of wealth, fortune, and beauty. During the auspicious night of Diwali, it is believed that she visits every home, and grants wealth, prosperity, and happiness, thereby filling each household with abundance.
The Significance of Lighting Candles in the Diwali Festival of Lights
The importance of lighting candles on the Diwali festival of lights is deeply rooted in tradition in Hindu culture. Lighting candles or earthen Diyas during this auspicious festival symbolizes several essential themes and concepts:
- Victory of Light Over Darkness
Diwali is a celebration that pays homage to the triumph of light over darkness and the victory of good over evil. The act of lighting candles or Diyas represents the commemoration of this symbolic victory. This association is rooted in the story of Shri Ram's return to Ayodhya after defeating the demon Ravana. His homecoming was marked by the illumination of lamps and candles, signifying the triumph of good over evil. Diwali festival of lights, which is celebrated by lighting candles, or Diyas, as per the Hindu symbol of victory.
- Symbol of Purity and Enlightenment
Candles, or “Diyas”, are made of pure, natural materials like clay or soy wax which are derived from soybean. In Hindu culture, purity is highly valued, and lighting a pure and simple source of light signifies the pursuit of purity and goodness. It is also a symbol of spiritual enlightenment, as it represents the inner light of wisdom and the illumination of knowledge and self-awareness.
- Invocation of Deities
Lighting candles is a form of reverence to multiple gods and goddesses during Diwali. It's believed that on the night of Diwali, Goddess Lakshmi makes her way to homes, and people use candles and earthen diyas to light her path. Additionally, when candles are lit in front of idols or within temples, it's thought to summon divine blessings and grace.
- Unity and Community
Diwali is unique in that it's a festival celebrated across the entire nation of India. This Festival of Lights is a time that brings families, friends, and communities together. Lighting candles in homes and public spaces isn't just about illumination; it's about creating a sense of togetherness and shared celebrations. During Diwali, people unite as a community, cultivating a spirit of togetherness.
- Protection and Warding Off Negativity
On the Diwali festival of lights, the act of lighting candles, Diyas, or lamps is also considered a means of dispelling negative energy and warding off evil spirits. This practice is believed to establish a protective shield around the home, ensuring the safety and well-being of the family.
- Tradition and Ritual
Lighting candles is an integral part of the traditional rituals and customs observed during Diwali. Families gather for aarti (prayer) ceremonies during which candles and lamps are lit to offer prayers and seek divine blessings.
Celebrating the Diwali Festival OF Lights
There are numerous ways to brighten your home during Diwali. The Festival of Lights, at its core, is best known for the illumination brought about by lighting lamps, candles, and Diyas. This tradition isn't just visually striking; it also carries profound symbolism.
Diyas: Using earthen Diyas is the traditional approach to illuminate and adorn your home. Crafted from clay, these Diyas feature a cotton wick soaked in ghee or oil. They are ignited and positioned in and around homes, on balconies, or in temples. The gentle, comforting radiance of these lamps is thought to repel negativity and infuse homes with positive energy.
Candles and Lanterns: In modern times, candles and electric lights have become popular choices for decorating during Diwali. Intricately designed candles and colorful lanterns add a touch of creativity to the festive decorations. It's not uncommon to see homes adorned with strings of decorative lights as well.
Rangoli: In addition to lighting lamps, another common Diwali tradition is the creation of rangoli, intricate patterns and designs made on the floor using colored powders, rice, flower petals, and other materials. Rangoli is not only a form of decoration but also a way to welcome guests into the home.
Fireworks: Fireworks are another significant part of the Diwali celebration. While they are visually spectacular, it's important to use them responsibly and with consideration for the environment and safety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Diwali Festival of Lights and Candles is a commemoration of goodness prevailing over evil, light conquering darkness, and prosperity triumphing over hardship. It's a period when households and spirits are aglow with warmth, affection, and happiness. The tradition of illuminating candles and lamps during Diwali not only enhances the visual grandeur but also bears profound spiritual and cultural meaning. As we revel in the festivities of Diwali, Aromahpure proudly offers a splendid collection of candles, elegantly encased in glass jars for you to choose from.
You May Also Like:-