While growing up, the festival of Diwali has become dearer to us as we get older. From dressing up in our new Indian wear, going around and delivering Diwali “parcels” to neighbours and joining our friends to delight in the colourful fireworks that filled the skies in the evening, this time of year has always been one to look forward to. While much has changed over the years, Diwali remains one of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated around the world and symbolises the spiritual 'victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.’
Diwali is celebrated on Amavasya, the 15th day of the dark fortnight of the Hindu month Ashwin, which falls in October or November according to the Gregorian calendar. This year, Diwali will be celebrated on the 24th of October all over the world by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and even Buddhists. The celebration is an important religious holiday that marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year and commemorates Lord Rama's return to his kingdom after defeating Ravana.
The origin of this festival can be traced back to ancient India when Lord Rama (an incarnation of Vishnu) returned to his kingdom after 14 years of exile following a battle between good and evil. In certain parts of India, Diwali is a five-day festival that marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of a new financial year for Hindus. It's also known as Deepawali, or "festival of lights."
During this time, Hindus also offer prayers to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Legend says that the Goddess made homes filled with joy, laughter and happiness through her celestial power. In honour of the goddess and the festival at large, families decorate their common areas with rangoli made from coloured powders and flowers, light diyas at night which symbolise lighting the way for Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana to return home. As they return from exile, our diyas light their way as they pass through all homes, blessing us for the New Year ahead.
One of the best things to look forward to is purchasing new clothing for this day. It is considered one of the days we look forward to dressing up in elaborate Indian wear that make us look and feel like royalty. Here are a few colours to consider wearing on the day:
- Red is the colour of fire, which signifies purity and strength.
- Gold which is a precious metal that symbolises prosperity, happiness and wealth.
- White symbolises peace, purity and good luck.
- Yellow is a cheerful colour that symbolises joy, happiness and good fortune
At Jayshree's Rivaz, we have a wide variety of Diwali looks to sparkle up your closet. With the COVID-19 pandemic slowing its pace, we are able to celebrate a little more socially and show off our latest looks. So make sure you are photo-worthy whether you have to attend work or after Diwali preparation at home.
On the whole, Diwali is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate. Traversing boundaries of religion and all nationalities, it has become a much-loved time for all. The festival is about making new beginnings, as well as remembering our past. It brings people closer together by encouraging them to share gifts with each other and spend time together during this special occasion
On the whole, Diwali is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate. Traversing boundaries of religion and all nationalities, it has become a much-loved time for all. The festival is about making new beginnings, as well as remembering our past. It brings people closer together by encouraging them to share gifts with each other and spend time together during this special occasion
