Diwali is so much more than just a festival – it is a time where one can self-introspect about their choices and rejoice in good over evil. From Hollywood sitcoms depicting Diwali celebrations to Pennsylvania declaring Diwali as a national holiday, the festival of lights has been recognised as a special moment for spending time with friends and family, welcoming warmth and embracing the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
A five-day celebration, filled with prayers, sumptuous feasts, spectacular fireworks, and acts of charity, Diwali celebrations mark new beginnings and dreams for many.
हर इक मकान में जला फिर दिया दिवाली का
हर इक तरफ को उजाला हुआ दिवाली का
सभी के दिल में समान भा गया दिवाली का
किसी के दिल को मजा खुश लगा दीवाली का
अजब बहार का है दिन बना दिवाली का
Nazeer Akbarabadi, Urdu Poet
The Essence of Diwali
Diwali’s essence is beautifully captured in its name, derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Deepavali‘, which translates to ‘row of lights’; each year Diwali is celebrated as a festival of lights, where people light up their homes with radiant clay lamps, or diyas, that symbolise their sparkling wishes and smiles.
The timing of Diwali is determined by the Hindu lunar calendar, marking the new moon between the Hindu months of Asvina and Kartika. This typically falls in October or November in the Gregorian calendar. This year, Diwali celebrations shall happen in full swing from 21st October till 22nd October’25 across the country, marking the arrival of new dreams for the upcoming new year.
Legends of Diwali
Diwali is a festival rich in legends, its significance evolving across different regions and communities. Its central theme, however, resonates with the triumph of good over evil. While its legends vary, they all reflect this common thread.
In Northern India, Diwali commemorates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and the rescue of his beloved wife, Sita, from the demon king Ravana. In South India, the festival pays homage to the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon king Narakasura, who had held 16,000 women captive. Western parts of India celebrate the banishment of King Bali to the underworld by Lord Vishnu.
Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists, three of the many minority religions in India, each have their unique Diwali stories.
For Sikhs, a faith that originated in the late 15th century as a movement within Hinduism, with a strong devotion to Vishnu, Diwali is a time to commemorate the release of the 17th-century Guru Hargobind.
Jains, with their ancient roots dating back to the middle of the first century B.C. and shared beliefs with Hinduism, observe Diwali as a momentous day when Lord Mahavira, the final great Jain teacher, attained nirvana.
Buddhists, whose faith emerged in the late 6th century B.C. as a response to Hinduism, celebrate Diwali as the day when Hindu Emperor Ashoka, who reigned during the third century B.C., embraced Buddhism.
Beyond these stories, Diwali also symbolizes the celebration of the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity, Lakshmi. In ancient India, Diwali aligned with the final harvest before winter, making it a time to beseech Lakshmi for good fortune. In the present day, Indian businesses continue to mark Diwali as the commencement of the financial new year.
Diwali Celebration with Kindness
Traditionally marked by lights and the exchange of sweets, Diwali is deeply rooted in the values of kindness, joy, and the triumph of goodness. Beyond its rituals, the festival offers an opportunity to extend celebrations by—
Extend a Helping Hand: Diwali is a time of abundance. Extend your generosity to those in need, contributing to organizations like Smile Foundation that work tirelessly to make a positive impact.
Eco-Friendly Celebrations: Let’s celebrate in harmony with nature. Opt for eco-friendly decorations and minimize waste generation with sustainable practices.
Consider Our Animal Friends: The noise from fireworks can distress animals. Let’s make an effort to reduce the impact and care for stray animals in our communities.
Embrace Inclusivity: Diwali is a celebration of unity. Invite friends and neighbors from diverse backgrounds to share the joy.
Homemade Delights: Prepare traditional sweets at home and share them with loved ones. It’s a heartwarming gesture that spreads joy.
Diwali 2025: Light up Bright Smiles
In a world where darkness often prevails, Diwali is a reminder that the light within us can overcome any shadow. With this spirit, gear up to celebrate Diwali 2025, by extending your kindness towards people, who need your support the most. Your small, generous act can make their Diwali celebration – truly warm and memorable.
Kickstart your festive season with Smile Foundation. This year, donate on diwali by gifting education to children who come from very difficult circumstances and for whom education is the only light that can take them and their communities towards a bright future.
