Introduction
Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, is one of India’s most significant and widely celebrated festivals. Observed on the new moon (Amavasya) of Kartik month in the Hindu calendar, Diwali is a celebration of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. The festival holds deep spiritual significance, with numerous myths and legends attached to its origins. It’s celebrated with unique traditions in different regions and is a time of indulgence in traditional sweets and savories, which also align with Ayurvedic principles for the seasonal shift.
Mythological Stories Associated with Diwali
The Return of Lord Rama: One of the most popular legends behind Diwali is the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. This legend comes from the Ramayana, where Rama defeats the demon king Ravana. To welcome them back, the people of Ayodhya illuminated the entire city with lamps, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Lord Krishna and Narakasura: Another tale from the Mahabharata associates Diwali with Lord Krishna's defeat of the demon Narakasura, who had caused great suffering by kidnapping women and terrorizing people. Krishna’s victory is celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi, a day before Diwali, in many parts of India, especially in the south, symbolizing the defeat of evil.
Goddess Lakshmi’s Blessings: Diwali is also considered the day when Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, emerged from the ocean during the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan) by the gods and demons. People worship Lakshmi on Diwali for prosperity, health, and wealth, and homes are cleaned and decorated in her honor to invite her blessings.
Coronation of King Vikramaditya: Diwali is also believed to mark the coronation of King Vikramaditya, a legendary emperor who ruled with great wisdom and courage. This story is especially celebrated in Gujarat and parts of Maharashtra.
Mahavira’s Nirvana: For Jains, Diwali holds significance as the day Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, attained moksha (nirvana). Jains celebrate Diwali with prayers and meditations to honor his teachings and seek spiritual liberation.
Kali Puja: In Bengal and Assam, Diwali coincides with the worship of Goddess Kali, the fierce form of Goddess Durga, who is revered for her strength in fighting evil. The worship of Kali emphasizes inner strength, courage, and protection from negative forces.
Regional Celebrations of Diwali
North India: In North India, Diwali centers around the return of Lord Rama. Homes are decorated with earthen lamps (diyas), flowers, and rangolis, while firecrackers light up the night sky. Families worship Lakshmi and Ganesha for prosperity and new beginnings, and exchange gifts and sweets.
South India: In the South, especially in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Diwali is celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi, commemorating Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. Oil baths and prayers are common, followed by festivities with sweets, lamps, and firecrackers.
Maharashtra and Gujarat: Diwali celebrations here extend over multiple days, including Dhanteras, Naraka Chaturdashi, Lakshmi Puja, Padwa (a day for married couples), and Bhai Dooj. In Gujarat, the new year is celebrated the day after Diwali.
West Bengal and Assam: Diwali is celebrated as Kali Puja, a night devoted to worshipping the fierce form of the goddess. Devotees offer prayers and sacrifices to Kali, seeking her blessings for courage and protection.
Punjab: In Punjab, Diwali coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, commemorating the release of Guru Hargobind Singh from imprisonment. The Golden Temple in Amritsar is illuminated, symbolizing liberation and victory of righteousness.
Odisha: People in Odisha celebrate Kartik Amavasya, performing rituals to honor their ancestors, who are believed to descend to earth during Diwali. Kaunriya Kathi (sticks) are burnt to guide the souls of ancestors back to their abode.
Traditional Foods and Festive Treats
Diwali is synonymous with indulgence in rich and festive foods, ranging from sweets like laddus, kaju katli, and gulab jamun to savory snacks like namakpare, chakli, and mathri. Each region has its unique offerings:
North India: Sweets like jalebi, laddus, barfis, and savory chakli and mathri.
South India: Mysore pak, murukku, adhirasam, and mixture (a savory snack).
West India: Gujiyas, shankarpali, farsan, and ghughra.
East India: Roshogolla, sita bhog, and kalakand.
Seasonal Regimen in Ayurveda and Diwali Foods
Diwali falls during Hemant Ritu (pre-winter season), a time marked by a shift from the coolness of autumn toward winter. According to Ayurveda, this season has a strong digestive agni (digestive fire), which can metabolize heavier foods, making it an ideal time for indulging in nutrient-rich, energy-dense foods. However, moderation and balance are key.
Inclusion of Ghee and Milk-Based Sweets: Sweets made with ghee and milk, like laddus and barfis, align with Ayurveda’s recommendations for nourishing and grounding foods to pacify Vata dosha, which may be aggravated by the colder weather.
Dry Fruits and Nuts: Snacks containing almonds, cashews, and raisins provide warmth and enhance stamina, suited for the increased metabolic activity of this season. Chikki (a sweet snack made from jaggery and nuts) is an excellent option for balancing Vata and Pitta.
Spices and Herbs: The use of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves in Diwali sweets aids digestion and prevents Ama (toxins), which can accumulate from overeating heavy or rich foods.
Avoidance of Overly Cold or Processed Foods: Ayurveda advises against cold foods or processed ingredients during Diwali, as these may hinder digestion and create an imbalance in the body, leading to Ama buildup.
Oil Baths and Self-Care Rituals: Following traditional practices like oil massages (abhyanga) before Diwali festivities is recommended for balancing Vata and increasing circulation, which supports health during the seasonal transition.
Significance and Takeaways
Diwali is more than a festival; it is a reminder of spiritual values, cultural traditions, and the importance of family and community. The symbolic act of lighting lamps reflects dispelling ignorance and fostering inner clarity. Ayurvedic practices during this period emphasize balancing the body in harmony with nature, making Diwali a time for physical rejuvenation, mental clarity, and spiritual growth.
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