What is the story behind the festival of Diwali?

As a cultural expert with a deep understanding of global traditions and festivals, I can provide you with an insightful narrative about the festival of Diwali, also known as the "Festival of Lights." This is a major festival celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists, and it symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is a five-day festival that occurs between mid-October and mid-November, depending on the lunar cycle. It is a time of great joy and festivity, with families coming together to celebrate with elaborate decorations, fireworks, and the sharing of sweets and gifts. ### The Story Behind Diwali #### Northern India: The Return of Rama In the northern part of India, Diwali is celebrated as the homecoming of King Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana after a 14-year exile. This event is narrated in the ancient Hindu epic, the Ramayana. King Rama, who was the avatar of Lord Vishnu, defeated the demon king Ravana, who had abducted Sita. Upon their return to Ayodhya, the people lit oil lamps to illuminate the path for the victorious return of their beloved king and his family. This act of lighting lamps is a significant part of Diwali celebrations, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and the inner light that protects us from spiritual darkness. #### Southern India: The Victory of Krishna In the southern regions, Diwali is commemorated as the day when Lord Krishna, another avatar of Lord Vishnu, defeated the demon Narakasura. Narakasura had oppressed the people and imprisoned 16,000 women in his dungeon. Lord Krishna, along with his wife Sathyabhama, defeated Narakasura and freed the prisoners. The day following this victory, which falls on a new moon day, is celebrated as Diwali. It is seen as a day of deliverance from evil and the establishment of dharma (righteousness). #### Other Significances Diwali also holds significance for Jains, who celebrate it as the day when Mahavira, the last Tirthankara of Jainism, attained Nirvana, the ultimate liberation from the cycle of birth and death. For Sikhs, Diwali marks the release of the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind, from imprisonment in 1619, symbolizing the end of tyranny and the triumph of freedom. ### Celebrations and Traditions The celebrations of Diwali are marked by several customs: 1. Cleaning and Decorating: Homes are thoroughly cleaned and decorated with rangoli (intricate patterns made from colored powders, rice, or flower petals), and small oil lamps known as diyas. 2. Worship: Prayers are offered to the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, to seek her blessings for a prosperous year ahead. 3. Fireworks and Firecrackers: The skies are illuminated with fireworks, which are believed to ward off evil spirits and add to the festive atmosphere. 4. Dressing Up: People dress in new clothes, symbolizing a fresh start and the victory of good over evil. 5. Sharing and Gifting: Sweets and gifts are exchanged among family and friends, fostering a sense of community and goodwill. 6. Feasting: A variety of traditional sweets and savory snacks are prepared and shared, making Diwali a gastronomic delight. Diwali is not just a Hindu festival; it is a celebration of life, a time to strengthen bonds with family and friends, and an opportunity to reflect on the eternal struggle between good and evil. The festival's message of hope and victory resonates across cultures and religions, making it a truly universal celebration.

Hindus interpret the Diwali story based upon where they live: In northern India they celebrate the story of King Rama's return to Ayodhya after he defeated Ravana by lighting rows of clay lamps. Southern India celebrates it as the day that Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura.