Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most beloved and widely celebrated festivals in India. This year, the festival falls on Thursday, October 31, but today, October 30, is Choti Diwali, also called Naraka Chaturdashi. It is a day filled with special rituals and prayers to welcome wealth and prosperity. To commemorate this joyous occasion, people share warm wishes, SMS, and social media statuses with their loved ones. May the twinkling lights of Diwali bring endless happiness and blessings to your life!
Diwali: A Festival of Lights
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a significant festival celebrated in India and many other parts of the world. It is one of the most joyous and widely celebrated festivals in India, with people of all ages and backgrounds coming together to celebrate. Diwali symbolizes the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.
History and Background
The origins of Diwali can be traced back to ancient Hindu scriptures. One of the most well-known legends associated with Diwali is the story of Lord Rama, a legendary prince who defeated the demon king Ravana and rescued his wife, Sita. Diwali is celebrated as a day of triumph and rejoicing over Rama's victory.
Another legend associated with Diwali tells the story of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Hindus believe that Goddess Lakshmi visits homes on the night of Diwali and brings wealth and blessings to those who have decorated their homes and performed specific rituals.
Celebrations and Rituals
Diwali is celebrated over five days, with each day having its unique significance and rituals. The main day of Diwali, known as Lakshmi Puja, falls on the third day of the festival. On this day, people perform Lakshmi Puja to welcome the goddess into their homes and pray for wealth and prosperity.
Other common Diwali rituals include:
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
Conclusion
Diwali is a vibrant and joyous festival that brings people together to celebrate the triumph of good, light, and prosperity. By sharing warm wishes, performing traditional rituals, and embracing the spirit of the festival, individuals can experience the true essence of Diwali and make it a memorable occasion.
After the abrogation of Article 370, Lal Chowk in Srinagar has become a hub of cultural and social activities. Recently, the Akhil Bhartiya Gau Sewa Foundation launched a 180-day padyatra from Lal Chowk to Kanyakumari, to create awareness about cow protection. The padyatra was flagged off with a ceremonial worship of a hybrid cow, symbolizing the region's transformation towards peace and development. This event showcases the changing atmosphere of Lal Chowk post-Article 370 and highlights the importance of cow protection in India.
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Religious orator Aniruddhacharya's comments during a sermon in Vrindavan, drawing offensive comparisons between women in live-in relationships and their moral character, have triggered widespread condemnation. Social media users, public figures, and former Army officer Khushboo Patani have called out his misogynistic and regressive statements, with Uttar Pradesh Women's Commission Chairperson Babita Chauhan also denouncing his language and intent. In response to the backlash, the orator released an apology video, but critics argue that the remarks undermine efforts towards gender equality and respectful public discourse.
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