Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is perhaps one of the most beautiful festivals in the eyes of Hindus. It is Hinduism's "Festival of Lights". Oil lamps with wicks are lit all over the house and fire crackers are burst. Deepavali is a festival that celebrates the victory of divine forces over the evil. Deepavali celebrates: 1. In the north, the return of Sri Rama to Ayodhya after slaying the demon Ravana and reclaiming his wife, Sita. 2. In other parts, the slaying of the evil demon Narakaasura by Sri Krishna. Worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, is done on Deepavali. It is customary on this day, to take an oil bath early in the morning (2 or 3 a.m.), wear new silk clothes, burst fire crackers, pray to Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and prosperity, and eat, with friends and family, a hearty feast. Sweets and snacks are exchanged amongst friends and relatives. Jainism is a sect of Hinduism. To Jains, Deepavali is important because they believe that it is the day that Mahavira, a great Jain saint, attained the eternal bliss of Nirvaana. Many sweets are made on Deepavali. One of them is Badam Burfi (almond cake). |
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