Diwali 2023 in India: The Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is an important Hindu festival celebrated all across India with much excitement and joy. It's a festival of lights and happiness. According to the Hindu calendar, Diwali falls on the Amavasya Tithi of Kartik Month, and this year, it's on November 12. India has a diverse range of festivals, and Diwali is celebrated uniquely in various regions.

In many places, people worship Goddess Lakshmi, decorate their homes with oil lamps (diyas), exchange gifts with their loved ones, and enjoy fireworks. Here's how Diwali is celebrated in different regions of the country:

Varanasi: In Varanasi, they have a special Diwali called Dev Deepawali. It is believed that during this time, Gods and Goddesses come down to Earth to bathe in the holy Ganga River. People offer prayers and light diyas along the Ganga's banks, creating a breathtaking sight with lamps and rangolis. Dev Deepawali falls on the full moon of the Kartika month, fifteen days after the regular Diwali.

Maharashtra: Maharashtra has its unique Diwali traditions. The festivities begin with the Vasu Baras ritual, which honors cows. Dhanteras is observed to pay respect to the ancient physician, Dhanvantari. On Diwali day, Maharashtrians worship Goddess Lakshmi and celebrate Diwali Cha Padva, a special day for husband-wife love. The celebrations conclude with Bhav Bij and Tulsi Vivah, which marks the beginning of wedding ceremonies.

Bengal: In Bengal, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja or Shyama Puja, held at night. Goddess Kali is adorned with hibiscus flowers and honored in temples and homes. Devotees offer sweets, lentils, rice, and fish to Maa Kali. Kolkata's temples like Dakshineswar and Kalighat are well-known for Kali Puja. The night before Kali Puja, Bengalis follow the Bhoot Chaturdashi ritual by lighting 14 diyas at home to ward off evil forces. In places like Barasat near Kolkata, Kali Puja is celebrated on a grand scale, akin to Durga Puja, with themed decorations and fairs. You'll also see figures of demons Dakini and Yogini in front of the Kali pandals.

Punjab: In Punjab, Diwali coincides with Bandi Chhor Diwas, a Sikh festival marked by lighting homes and gurudwaras, exchanging gifts, fireworks, and feasting. Punjabi Hindus worship Goddess Lakshmi during Diwali. This celebration also signifies the onset of winter in Punjab.

Odisha: In Odisha, there's a special Diwali tradition called Kauriya Kathi. It's a ritual where people honor their ancestors in heaven by lighting jute sticks to invite them and seek their blessings. Additionally, during Diwali, Odias also worship Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and Goddess Kali.