Diwali

Aadesh is thrilled his grandma is visiting. Even more exciting is the reason for her visit: It’s Diwali! Diwali is a festival in the Hindu month of Kartik – usually October or November. It lasts five days. Diwali is celebrated by Hindus around the world, as well as by Sikhs, Jains and some Buddhists.

Everyone has their own way of celebrating… …including Aadesh’s family! Today is the first day, and Aadesh and his grandma help clean the home from top to bottom. A clean home welcomes in the Goddess Lakshmi, who brings blessings of good fortune and wealth. There are more activities to come, but first let’s learn about some of the stories behind Diwali. In much of western India, Diwali marks the time that Lord Vishnu sent the demon king Bali down to the underworld.

In southern India, Diwali is celebrated as the time that Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura. And in northern India, where Aadesh is from, many Hindus remember the story of Goddess Sita, who was kidnapped by the demon king, Ravana. King Rama set out to rescue her with help from Lord Hanuman, his monkey companion. There was a fierce battle but Rama finally defeated Ravana and saved Sita! After the battle, people from Rama and Sita’s kingdom lit lamps to help them find their way home.

It’s the second day of Diwali and Aadhesh prays to Lord Hanuman. It is said that Rama was so pleased with Hanuman’s devotion that he blessed Hanuman to be worshipped before him. This is why some Hindus worship Hanuman on the day before the third, and main, day of Diwali… The morning of the third day is here! Aadesh is lighting clay lamps to celebrate King Rama’s return, just like the people of the kingdom did! Diwali literally means “row of lights”.

The lights also welcome the goddess Lakshmi. And Aadesh and his grandma have another way to welcome her, too. They make a colourful pattern outside the front door, using bright powders and petals. It is called a rangoli. When evening comes, Aadesh and his family perform a special ritual to worship the Goddess Lakshmi.

Aadesh places a statue of the goddess on a decorated table. He and his family offer Lakshmi flowers, fruits, and sweets then join their palms to pray to her. After these prayers, Aadesh and his family get together with other families. Everyone dresses in their nicest clothes and shares a feast! When nighttime comes, there are fireworks and sparklers.

Happy Diwali, everyone! Day four is the first day of the new year for some Hindus. Today, lots of Aadesh’s family are visiting. They all bring their best wishes for the season… and lots of gifts! Day five of Diwali is for celebrating the special bond between siblings.

Aadesh and his brothers visit their sister’s home. She has prepared delicious jalebis and laddoos: Aadesh’s favourite! She prays that Aadesh and his brothers will have long and happy lives. Diwali is drawing to a close, but the new year has just begun. May yours be full of light and happiness, Aadesh!