Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Deepavali - Festival of Light


Diwali or Deepavali is the festival of light celebrated by the Hindus, Jains and Sikhs. It is observed on the new moon day of the month Kartika. Many legends are associated with this festival. Hindus believe that on this day Lord Rama returned to his kindom after defeating demonic Ravana. Jains observe Diwali as the day of enlightenment, when Lord Mahavira attained nirvana. For Sikh's it is the day when Guru Hargobind ji was released from captivity at Gawalior Fort.


People decorate their houses, shops, temples, and their neighbourhoods with lamps and observe a ritual to drive away evil force from their house. Fire crackers are burnt as part of the celebration. In Bengal goddess Kali is worshipped at midnight on this day.
To see more photographs of Diwali please visit my album.

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