Diwali or Deepavali is one of the most prominent festivals celebrated in India. This auspicious festival marks the victory of good over evil. It is also considered as the triumph of light over darkness, thus celebrated as the festival of lights.

Usually, the Diwali celebrations last for five days when all the houses, temples, and public places are beautifully lit up with diyas (earthen lamps) or artificial lights. 

Diwali surely gets a nostalgic feeling as most of us have lit fireworks, exchanged gifts, and roamed around the streets enjoying the glitters and joy. In fact, it is believed that lighting up fireworks signifies a way to chase away darkness and evil spirits. 

Significance of Deepavali or Diwali

According to the studies, the word Diwali is derived from the Sanskrit word “Deepavali”, which means “a string or row of lights”. There are numerous historical events or stories that are correlated to this beautiful festival. India is a land of different cultures and traditions. Thus, the celebrations and beliefs vary from one region to another. Most people celebrate this festival to mark the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after an exile of 14 years. In some cultures, people celebrate this festival to worship Goddess Kali or Lakshmi.

Apart from these, Diwali has many legends with different beliefs and practices that vary from one region to another. 

A Celebration of Love, Light, and Togetherness

Diwali is also a celebration that involves love, light and togetherness. Houses, workspaces, and public places are decorated with rangolis made of flowers and colors. People also love to wear ethnic wear to offices, and other social gatherings. Men are usually seen in kurtas or traditional attires while women adorn themselves with different types of outfits like sarees, salwar suits, kurta sets, anarkali sets, and more. 

People also engage in different games like kitty parties, rangoli design competitions, Diwali charades, recipe challenges, decoration contests, and many more. It's a time of get-together, fun, and laughter. There are also many traditional delicacies prepared and shared during this time at home.

Some of the top traditional recipes include samosas, murukku, aloo bonda, sooji halwa, gulab jamoon, namakpare, paneer tikka, rice kheer, onion bhaji, soan papdi, rasgulla, gujiya and more. These are mainly snacks and sweets that are prepared at home. Apart from these, the main course includes kadhai paneer with butter rotis, dal makhani with jeera rice, achari aloo with paratha, veg, paneer pulav, etc. In some regions, non vegetarian dishes are also enjoyed. 

Cleaning and Decoration

The cleaning starts at homes and offices at least a week before the main Diwali. People clean their places, purchase a lot of home decor items, and decorate their homes and surroundings. They also exchange these items with their loved ones and participate in the decoration process, which is a great time to get together. After the decoration, the celebration starts with a “pooja” followed by a feast, which is definitely something to look forward to.

These days, most people conduct and participate in card parties, which also include the bursting of firecrackers and the exchanging of gifts. However, as more and more people are becoming environmentally conscious, they avoid bursting crackers and choose different alternatives like lighting up eco-friendly and biodegradable diyas and lamps. 

The lighting of diyas and lamps creates a positive vibe throughout the evening and night hours.

Best Diwali Destinations to Capture the Magic

Although Diwali is celebrated throughout India, there are some special places that offer an enchanting experience. Below mentioned are some of the few that you must visit and experience at least once in a lifetime:

Jaipur: Jaipur, also known as “The Pink City” transforms into a stunning spectacle during Diwali. The entire city is decorated with bright and colorful lights and the markets come alive with festive delights. A walk through the lit, colorful markets during the late evening hours is a mystical experience.

Varanasi: In this holy city, Diwali takes a spiritual proportion. Witnessing the banks of the River Ganges illuminated with millions of diyas creates a breathtaking sight. The whole landscape becomes alive during this time. 

Mumbai: If you are looking for a more alive and contemporary celebration, you can experience it in the bustling city of Mumbai. The public places, markets, homes, temples, and streets are adorned with decorations and lights. Most people also burst firecrackers which creates a sense of celebration.

Amritsar: Witnessing The Golden Temple of Amritsar is also a sight to behold during the festival of lights. The large temple complex is lit with golden diyas and lights, which reflect in the sacred pool.

Apart from these, you can experience the finesse of the festivities all around the country. Whether you are taking a stroll through the streets or traveling from one city to another, you will surely find a welcoming atmosphere during this time. This is also a time when most people return to their hometowns to celebrate the festival with their families.  

Diwali is a holiday celebrated by all in the country, not just certain individuals. These days, diverse religious groups and individuals also celebrate Diwali. Today, it has become a time to get together, celebrate, and have fun. 

Conclusion

Diwali is a speciation festival that captures the spirit of positivity, togetherness, and happiness. The festival has also moved past religious origins to represent, hope, peace, and the triumph of good over evil. Diwali has also become a lively festival that brings people together for celebrations and sharing.

While you indulge in the spirit of this beautiful festival, share love, joy, and good health with the snacks offered by Healthy Master. There are many specially curated gift hampers that you can choose for your family and friends.

So, enjoy the festive beams, party responsibility, and create fond memories with your loved ones.

Wishing you a Diwali filled with Joy, Love and Good Health!