10 Unknown Facts About Diwali That Will Light Up Your Knowledge!

 

10 Unknown Facts About Diwali That Will Light Up Your Knowledge!

Diwali, one of India's most vibrant and celebrated festivals, is known for its dazzling lights, delicious sweets, and lively festivities. While many are familiar with the basic customs like lighting diyas, bursting fireworks, and worshipping goddess Lakshmi, there are several lesser-known facts about Diwali that add depth to the festival. Let's explore these unknown facets of Diwali that might surprise you.

1. Diwali is Celebrated Across Different Religions

While most associate Diwali with Hinduism, the festival is also celebrated by Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, albeit for different reasons. For Sikhs, Diwali marks the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from imprisonment in 1619, while Jains celebrate the spiritual enlightenment (moksha) of Lord Mahavira. Buddhists in some parts of India celebrate the conversion of Emperor Ashoka to Buddhism during this time.

2. It’s a Five-Day Festival

Although many people think of Diwali as a single-day event, it actually spans five days, each with its unique significance. The festivities start with Dhanteras, followed by Naraka Chaturdashi, the main Diwali day (Lakshmi Puja), Govardhan Puja, and end with Bhai Dooj, a day dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters.

3. Diwali Marks the New Year for Many

In several regions of India, Diwali signifies the start of the new year. Particularly in Gujarat and parts of Rajasthan, the Hindu New Year begins with Diwali, and businesses often start new financial books on this auspicious day, known as "Chopda Pujan."

4. The Story of Diwali Varies by Region

While the common story in most parts of India is the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile, different regions of the country have their own interpretations. In West Bengal, for instance, Diwali is marked by the worship of Goddess Kali, the symbol of strength and power, while in southern India, it is the day when Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura.

5. Environmental Concerns Are Leading to New Traditions

In recent years, awareness about pollution caused by fireworks has led to the rise of eco-friendly Diwali celebrations. Many families now opt for earthen diyas, organic rangoli powders, and noise-free crackers to reduce the environmental impact while keeping the essence of the festival alive.

6. Diwali is Celebrated Outside India Too

The Indian diaspora celebrates Diwali with equal enthusiasm across the world, especially in countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Fiji, Trinidad and Tobago, and Mauritius. In places like Leicester in the UK and New York in the US, large-scale public Diwali celebrations are held, featuring music, dance, and grand firework displays.

7. Diwali Wasn’t Always About Fireworks

The tradition of bursting firecrackers during Diwali is relatively modern. Historically, Diwali was a festival of light, with people lighting lamps and diyas to symbolize the victory of good over evil. The introduction of fireworks added a new layer of excitement to the celebrations in recent centuries.

8. The Largest Oil Lamp in the World Was Lit During Diwali

In 2016, India broke the world record for lighting the largest oil lamp during Diwali in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. The lamp was made from earthen pots (diyas), and thousands were lit across the city to celebrate the festival and honor Lord Rama’s return to his kingdom.

9. It's Also a Time for Charity

While Diwali is widely known for exchanging gifts and sweets, it’s also a time for charity and giving back to the community. Many people donate food, clothes, and money to those in need, and some companies organize charity drives during the festival. The idea is to share prosperity and bring light into the lives of others.

10. Rangoli Designs Have Deeper Meanings

The colorful rangoli patterns created on the ground are not just for decoration. These intricate designs, traditionally made from rice powder, flowers, and colored sand, are believed to invite positive energies into the home. Certain symbols, like lotus flowers and swastikas, are commonly used to attract prosperity and peace.