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Diwali History |
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Diwali, the festival of lights, brings along a lot of reasons to celebrate the occasion in a grand manner. People of all castes and creed are in a festive mood around the Diwali season. Talking about the history of Diwali, we would find a number of events associated with it that make the festival all the more significant for almost each sect of the Indian society. We take you back into the historical past and inform you about the important events that took place during the auspicious days of Diwali.
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Victory Of Rama
Diwali marks the era if evil Ravana, which has been inspiring humankind time and again that virtuousness will always triumph over vice, come what may. Lord Rama was called as 'Maryadapurushottam' and he did not leave the side of goodness even in the times of crisis and ultimately the victory was his.
Rebirth Of Goddess Lakshmi
It was the same times span of the year when Goddess Lakshmi emerged amidst the milky tides of the sea. This was the result of the process of 'Samudramanthan' (churning of sea) conducted by the demons and Gods as one team. Along with the Goddess Lakshmi, the holy nectar was produced, which was consumed by all Gods that made them immortal.
Lord Krishna Killed Narakasura
The devil Narakasura was put an end by Lord Krishna on around the fifteenth day of Karthika month. This was a breakthrough incident in Treta Yuga as Narakasura had created an aura of terror among the people of all the three worlds.
Pandavas' Return
It was the same time according to Hindu mythology when Pandavas returned to their home after a twelve year period of ostracism as a result of their defeat in the game of dicing against Kauravas. The supporters of Pandavas rejoiced in happiness and celebrated the occasion by lighting diyas, dancing and singing.
Vikramaditya's Crowning
The great Vikramaditya took kingly responsibilities of the territory of Ujjain on the same day. He is widely known for his bravery, wisdom and generosity.
Significance For Sikhs
Amongst the Sikh community, Diwali has been named as 'the red-letter day'. They celebrate Diwali by gathering at the Gurudwaara and invoking blessings of their Gurus. In 1577, the third Sikh Guru Arnar Das laid down the foundation of the Golden Temple, situated in Amritsar.
Significance For the Followers Of Arya Samaj
The legendary reformer of Hinduism, Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati attained nirvana on the Diwali day. It was after this juncture, Maharishi Dayanand preached the teachings of Vedas to the mankind.
Pope's Speech On Diwali
During 1999 visit of Pope John Paul II to India, he celebrated Diwali in a Church. The Indian Church was decorated with numerous colorful lights and people welcomed him by performing Arti of him and putting tilak on his forehead.
Significance For Jains
Jainees celebrate Diwali in the honor their mentor Mahavir Tirthankar, who attained nirvana on the occasion of Diwali.
These are some of breakthrough events included in the history or mythology of India. The events led to either the creation of a religion or was a breakthrough in it. Thus, people of all sects are indulged in the celebrated spirit during Diwali.
Killing Of Narakasura
Narakasura had created a menace in the three worlds due to his ill deeds. He use to plunder, kill people and abducted the womenfolk. When he did the same in heaven Lord Indra got baffled and went to Lord Krishna for help. Lord Krishna set the journey on to Narakasura's fort along with his wife Satyabhama. He killed him right away and Satyabhama is said to be of great help in doing so. Lord Krishna had to take an oil bathe in order to get rid of the blood splashes of Narakasura over his body. Thus, the idol of Lord krishna is bathed in oil on every Diwali.
Harvest Festival
the festival of Diwali marks the advent of Harvest festival in India. Thus, people belonging to agrarian society in India celebrate the occasion in their own way. They offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi so as to shower her blessings for better crops year by year. They prepare 'poha' and light oil diyas in their yards. After all, it is that special time of the year when they would bear good results in return of their sweat and blood.
These stories are different from each other and happened at different ages, yet one aspect is shared by all. All of them are moral fables that depict the victory of good over evil. Thus, Diwali is not only about celebrations and buying new items for oneself, but it has a deeper meaning to it. It is the symbol of all goodness and inspires us to follow the path of righteousness in order to lead a happy and harmonious life. | |
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