Diwali represent festival of lights

Diwali is an Indian holiday that spans from Oct. 22 to Oct. 26. The celebration of the holiday is on the 24th; this is when families and friends get together to throw a party. 

The holiday represents a festival of lights. It represents the triumph of light over darkness and portrays the ability to overcome evil. Families decorate their homes in bright lights and candles, which are specifically sparked on set days. 

The first day of Diwili is called Dhantares. This day marks the beginning of the festival and from 7 p.m.-8 p.m. The population worships Lord Kubera and Goddess Lakshmi, both gods of wealth. Many people also buy and bring in jewelery that is gold and silver as this is good fortune and luck. 

On Oct. 23, people celebrate Choti Diwali, which is early in the morning at 6 a.m. This day represents a milestone as a long time ago, Lord Krishna fought a demon named Narakasura and defeated him. Narakasura was known as a demon king, in which Lord Krishna was an extremely powerful being who was a philosopher, hero and leader all in one. 

Oct. 24 is the main celebration of Diwali. People get together and throw a party. They eat, dance, sing and enjoy the lights all night long. At the very end of the day, closely tied family members get together and light their candles all around/inside their homes. The candles represent protection and good luck, so it’s very important to light them and perform a ritual to give/receive blessings.  People also welcome Goddess Lakshmi once again, who is believed to bless everyone with luck and prosperity. 

The next day is celebrated early on Oct. 25, starting at 6:30 a.m. People celebrate Lord Krishna defeating God Indra who was the God of storm and wars. Lord Krishna was known to have saved disciples by lifting a mountain under God Indra’s wrath.

The last and final day is Bhai Dooj. On Oct. 26, brothers and sisters come together to celebrate their bonds. Brothers visit their sisters, bearing a gift for her. In return, the sisters greet their brothers and apply tilak on their foreheads. They also bless their brothers with a prayer for their welfare. It is also a tradition to feed siblings sweets and desserts.

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