Diwali’s Hidden History: Unpacking 5000 Years of Belief, Culture & The Ultimate Festival of Lights
Hello, our wonderful readers/ friends, and Shubh Deepavali!
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| Shubh Deepavali |
Today, we're not just going to celebrate Diwali; we're going to excavate it. We are going on a journey that will take us back to the origins of this incredible festival, dissecting its three massive pillars: Belief, History, and Culture. We’ll uncover how the stories from the **Vedas** still shape our modern lives, how this five-day festival is actually rolled into one, and why its diverse celebrations, even if you book a Diwali Tour Package From Ahmedabad to experience them, are so globally relevant.
Get comfortable, because this is going to be a deep dive. This is the definitive guide to understanding the why behind the light.
I. The Core Belief: 'Tamaso Ma Jyotirgamaya'
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Tamaso Ma Jyotirgamaya |
Before we dive into the chronology of Rama and Krishna, we must start with the core belief—the philosophical DNA of Diwali. If you don't understand this phrase, you don't understand the festival itself.
The most profound and foundational mantra associated with Diwali comes from the Bṛhadāraṇyaka Upaniṣad, one of the oldest sacred texts in Hinduism, and it is this:
“Asato mā sadgamaya, Tamaso mā jyotirgamaya, Mṛtyormā’mṛtaṃ gamaya.”
It translates to:
“Lead me from the Unreal to the Real, Lead me from Darkness to Light, Lead me from Death to Immortality.”
The entire purpose of the Diya—the oil lamp—is rooted in the central line: 'Tamaso Mā Jyotirgamaya' - Lead me from Darkness to Light.
In the Vedic context, Darkness (Tamas) isn't just the absence of sunlight; it's a powerful metaphysical metaphor. It represents Ignorance (Ajnana), Spiritual Confusion, Emotional Inertia, and the Cycle of Suffering. Light (Jyoti) is the metaphor for knowledge (Gyan), Clarity, Wisdom, and the Ultimate Spiritual Realization.
Think about the profound philosophy embedded in the physical structure of the **DIYA** itself, a concept dating back thousands of years:
The Clay Lamp (Mitti): Represents the physical body—mortal and temporary.
The Ghee or Oil: Symbolizes our ego (Aham/ Agyanata) and attachments, the very fuel of our worldly desires.
The Cotton Wick: Represents the Soul (Jivatma), the individual soul, ready to be ignited.
The Flame (Jyoti): Represents Divine Knowledge (Brahm Gyan), the Ultimate Reality or the Divine light of Consciousness.
When we light the lamp, we are performing an act of spiritual alchemy. We are symbolically using our ego (the oil) and our actions (the wick) to generate the light of wisdom (the flame) that drives away the darkness of ignorance. This is the real victory of good over evil that we celebrate—an internal victory, a triumph of consciousness over confusion.
Diwali, therefore, is an annual existential reset. It’s a moment to look inward, acknowledge our own darkness, and then, through the collective action of lighting millions of lamps across homes and streets, make a public, ceremonial, and deeply personal commitment to embrace the light—to seek knowledge, find clarity, and be a source of illuminating positivity in the world. This profound belief system is why Diwali transcends being just a festival.
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| Diversity of India |
Now that we have the philosophical foundation, let's trace the historical roots of how this single concept exploded into the intricate, five-day celebration we know today.
The Five-Day Historical Narrative of Diwali Festival
Day 1: Dhanteras (Dhanatrayodashi)
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| Happy Dhanteras |
While the **Upaniṣads** give us the philosophy, the **Purāṇas** and the **Epics** give us the stories and the structured history. Diwali is often simplified to just Rama’s return, but that’s only one part of the third day! The festival is a beautifully layered tapestry of five distinct days, each with its own incredible, informative history and purpose.
Day 1: Dhanteras (Dhanatrayodashi)
The first day, Dhanteras, is a composite of three core concepts: Auspicious Wealth, Wellness, and the Warding off of Death. The word Dhan literally means wealth, but in the context of this day, it encompasses more than just money.
The History of Wellness: Dhanvantari’s Incarnation: The most historically significant origin is linked to the Samudra Manthan (the Churning of the Cosmic Ocean) described in the Bhāgavata Purāṇa. The belief is that on this day, Dhanvantari, the divine physician and the God of Ayurveda (the ancient science of life), emerged from the ocean carrying the pot of Amrita (the nectar of immortality). This is crucial. It positions health and well-being as the primary, most important wealth (Dhan) needed to enjoy all others. This is why Dhanteras is a deeply significant day for holistic health, dedication to self-care, and the worship of medicine before the feasting of Diwali begins.
The Belief of Longevity: The Yama Deepam: A powerful cultural and belief concept here is the victory over the fear of untimely death. The $Skanda Purāṇa$ recounts the Legend of King Hima’s son, whose death was foretold on the fourth day of his marriage by a snake bite. His wife’s simple but powerful action—lighting countless lamps and placing them at the door—dazzled the God of Death, $Yama, who came in the form of a serpent. Yama was so captivated by the light and the glittering ornaments that he couldn't enter the house and retreated. Thus, lighting a specific diya outside the main door, facing south, is an act of warding off untimely death—known as the Yama Deepam.
The Cultural Concept of Prosperity: The cultural ritual observed widely, especially in Gujarat (where this vlog is being made!), is the purchase of new metal—gold, silver, utensils, or brass. This ritual, known as shagun, symbolizes the tangible arrival of fresh wealth and prosperity into the home for the coming year. This tradition is rooted in the ancient traditions of commerce and trade, symbolizing the start of a new financial year for many merchant communities.
The Shopping Concept of Prosperity: The act of buying something new on this day is considered a way to invite Goddess Lakshmi's blessings and to honor Lord Dhanvantari, the God of Ayurveda (health). Here is a detailed breakdown of what people traditionally buy and the symbolism behind the purchase:
The Most Auspicious Purchases on Dhanteras
The purchases on Dhanteras fall into three main categories: Precious Metals (Symbolizing Wealth), Utensils (Symbolizing Sustenance/Health), and Household Items (Symbolizing Cleanliness/New Beginnings).
1. Precious Metals: The Traditional Wealth Invoker
This is the most popular and time-honored category. The idea is that an investment made on this day multiplies throughout the year.
Gold: The ultimate symbol of wealth, purity, and longevity.
Gold Coins: The top choice, often engraved with the motifs of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. These are considered a pure form of investment and are often worshipped during the main Lakshmi Puja.
Gold Jewellery: Buying new jewellery, especially rings, earrings, or bangles, is popular, serving the dual purpose of investment and personal adornment for the main Diwali days.
Silver: A popular and often more affordable alternative to gold. Silver is considered auspicious for household prosperity, peace, and purity.
Silver Coins: Usually depicting Lakshmi and Ganesha, used for puja.
Silver Utensils: Small silver bowls, spoons, or diyas (lamps) that can be used for prayer rituals.
2. Utensils and Appliances: For Health and Abundance: The tradition of buying utensils links back to Lord Dhanvantari, who emerged with the pot of Amrita (nectar) on this day, symbolizing health and life-sustaining nourishment.
New Utensils (Brass, Copper, or Silver): Buying new pots, pans, or serving vessels, particularly those made of brass or copper, is highly auspicious. These metals are believed to attract positive energy and are associated with good health.
Important Tip: It is considered inauspicious to bring an empty pot home. Ensure you place a few grains of rice, salt, or coins inside the vessel before entering the house to symbolize abundance immediately entering your life.
Electronic Appliances/Gadgets: In the modern context, buying a new item that brings comfort, convenience, or knowledge is seen as a positive investment. This includes cars, scooters, kitchen appliances (refrigerators, microwaves, air-fryers), and new technology like phones or laptops.
3. Household Items: For Clearing Negativity: These purchases are inexpensive but hold deep symbolic value related to cleanliness and the removal of past troubles.
A New Broom (Jhadu): This is one of the most symbolically significant, yet inexpensive, purchases. A new broom represents sweeping away financial worries, negativity, and poverty from the home. Goddess Lakshmi is believed to reside only in clean spaces.
Grains (Dhan): Buying the five major grains (Panch Dhan) or whole coriander seeds (Dhaniya) is considered auspicious, representing a full pantry and a harvest of abundance.
Laxmi-Ganesha Idols: Buying new idols or pictures of Goddess Lakshmi (for wealth) and Lord Ganesha (for wisdom to manage the wealth) for the home altar, especially if you are performing a new puja.
A Simple Diya (Earthen Lamp): Buying new earthen lamps or a decorative set of Diya's is essential, as the lighting ceremony (Yamadeep Daan) is central to the evening ritual.
Items to Avoid on Dhanteras: Just as certain items are auspicious, tradition suggests avoiding others
Iron and Steel: Many traditions advise against buying iron or steel items on this day, as they are not considered a "pure" metal for the start of the financial year. Stick to brass, copper, silver, or gold.
Sharp Objects: Scissors, knives, or other sharp objects are often avoided as they can symbolize cutting into wealth or relationships.
Leather Goods: Items made of leather are generally avoided due to the association with animal hide, which is considered inauspicious for a religious celebration.
Black/Dark- Colored Items: Since Diwali is the festival of light, anything symbolizing darkness or negativity, such as dark clothing or home décor, is traditionally avoided.
Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali)
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Naraka Chaturdashi |
Narak Chaturdashi, also popularly known as Chhoti Diwali, Roop Chaudas, or Kali Chaudas, is a day of ritual cleansing, celebration of the victory of good over evil, and preparation for the main Diwali festival.
The day marks the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura, as well as the triumph of light and purity. Naraka Chaturdashi, or Choti Diwali (Small Diwali), is about purification and preparation. Its history is one of decisive, necessary action—the immediate predecessor to the ultimate victory of Deepavali.
The History: The Defeat of Narakasura:
The most celebrated historical narrative comes from the Vishnu Purana, detailing the triumph of Lord Vishnu's avatar, Krishna. The demon king Narakasura, ruler of Pragjyotishpur (modern-day Assam), had amassed unimaginable power, kidnapped 16,000 women, and stole the earrings of Aditi, the mother of the gods. His actions represented the dark force of tyranny and unchecked ego. On this day, Lord Krishna, accompanied not by another male god, but by his fierce and capable consort Satyabhama, killed the demon. The inclusion of Satyabhama emphasizes the historical theme that cosmic victory often requires a balance of masculine and feminine energy. Krishna then freed the 16,000 captive women and restored order to the cosmos. The celebration of light on this day is literally the celebration of freedom.
The Belief: Ritual Cleansing and Dispelling Filth:
The name Naraka refers to hell or filth. The belief is that by defeating Narakasura, Krishna saved the world from a hellish existence. Culturally, we translate this belief into the act of ritual cleansing, or Abhyanga Snan. This is a bath taken before sunrise, often with special aromatic oils, Ubtan (a purifying paste of herbs and flour), and essential salts. Taking the Abhyanga Snan on this day is considered the equivalent of bathing in the holy Ganges River. It symbolizes scrubbing away the spiritual and physical 'filth' or sins (Naraka) accumulated over the past year, ensuring the home and the body are ritually pure to welcome the Goddess Lakshmi on the main day. It is the spiritual spring cleaning of the self.
The Cultural Concept: The Dawn of Light:
Culturally, Choti Diwali is the day we start lighting up the house in earnest, but strategically. While the main lighting is tomorrow, today we light the first few diyas in the evening, often near drainages or sewage exits. This is not just decoration; it is a symbolic gesture of banishing the darkness and evil forces from every corner of the home, declaring that the light has arrived.
Day 3: Deepavali / Lakshmi Puja (The Zenith of Light)
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| Happy Diwali |
This is it. The central, most magnificent day—the actual Deepavali, or the "Row of Lights." This night, the new moon night (Amavasya), is the darkest night of the year, making the act of lighting the diya a grand, cosmic declaration of faith. The history of this day is so rich, it actually has two massive, simultaneous origin stories.
>>>>>>>>>>>The History<<<<<<<<<<<
The Two Great Triumphs
Lord Rama’s Return (The Victory of Dharma): The most popular narrative, especially in North India, details the triumphant return of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshman to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and the defeat of the great demon-king Ravana. This historical event represents the ultimate victory of Dharma (righteousness) over Adharma (unrighteousness). The citizens, overwhelmed with joy, illuminated the entire path from the borders to the capital with millions of diyas to welcome and guide their king, hence the name Deepa-avali, or "row of lamps."
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| Lord Rama Return to Ayodhya |
>>>>>>>>>>>The Belief<<<<<<<<<<<
Inviting Prosperity from Darkness: The placement of Lakshmi Puja on the darkest night of the year is profound. The belief is that the Goddess, representing wealth and fortune, only visits homes that have dispelled the darkness of ignorance and laziness. The millions of lights are not just for show; they are cosmic invitations. They represent the human effort and dedication that must be in place to receive divine grace.
>>>>>>>>>>>The Cultural Concepts<<<<<<<<<<<
Commerce and Community: Culturally, this is the night for Lakshmi Puja, performed during a specific, astronomically precise auspicious window (Muhurat). Businesses traditionally close out old ledger books and open new ones (Chopda Pujan). The ritual of worshipping money, gold, and account books reflects the socio-economic reality that Diwali is also the great festival of commerce. This is particularly evident in Gujarat, a major trading hub, making it a critical aspect of any immersive Diwali Tour Package From Ahmedabad, where you see the vibrant markets, the closure of old accounts, and the lighting of the iconic Kuber Deepam (lamp for the God of Wealth).
Day 4: Govardhan Puja / Padwa / Annakoot (The New Year)
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| Govardhan Puja |
Day 4 holds some of the most diverse and regionally specific histories and cultural concepts. Depending on where you are—Gujarat, Maharashtra, or Northern India—this day can be the actual New Year's Day.
The History: The Triumph of Humility: The primary historical narrative comes from the $Bhagavata Purana$: Govardhan Puja. Lord Krishna, as a young boy, convinced the residents of Vrindavan to worship the Govardhan Hill and the environment, rather than Indra, the proud God of Rain, whose worship demanded elaborate rituals. Enraged by this simple devotion, Indra unleashed torrential rain. Krishna then demonstrated his divine power by lifting the entire Govardhan Hill on his little finger, holding it up for seven days and seven nights, and providing shelter to the people and the cattle. The victory here is a philosophical one: simple, genuine devotion (Bhakti) and ecological awareness are superior to expensive rituals and pride (Ahamkara).
>>>>>>>>>>>The Belief<<<<<<<<<<<
The New Beginning (Bestu Varas) For millions in Western India, including Gujarat, this day is the start of the New Year (the Vikram Samvat calendar). It is called Padwa or Bestu Varas (New Year). This tradition is tied to the mythological return of the benevolent King Bali, who is said to return to his kingdom from the netherworld once a year. The belief here is one of total renewal and reconciliation. People wake up to a new day, wearing new clothes, greeting friends and family with Nutan Varsh Abhivanandan, and often visiting temples or seeking blessings from elders. It is a fresh slate for all personal and business dealings.
>>>>>>>>>>>The Cultural Concepts<<<<<<<<<<<
Annakoot and Gifting: The central cultural ritual is Annakoot, meaning "mountain of food." In temples, especially those dedicated to Krishna (like Dwarka or Nathdwara), a vast, spectacular offering of 56 or 108 different vegetarian dishes is presented to God, symbolizing the food that was saved under Govardhan Hill. In homes, wives perform aarti (a ritual of light) for their husbands, and a custom of gift-giving and renewed commitments marks the day.
Day 5: Bhai Dooj (The Celebration of the Sibling Bond)
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| Bhaiya Dooj |
The fifth and final day brings the focus back from the cosmic to the personal: Bhai Dooj (or Bhai Phonta in Bengal, Bhau Beej in Maharashtra, and Bhai Tika in Nepal). It is the sacred, historical celebration of the eternal bond between brother and sister.
>>>>>>>>>>>The History<<<<<<<<<<<
Yama’s Vow and Yami’s Love: The most famous historical and mythological origin story involves the deities Yama (the God of Death and Justice) and his twin sister, Yami (the Goddess River Yamuna). The legend states that Yama had neglected to visit his sister for a long time. When he finally did, Yami was overjoyed. She welcomed him with great reverence, applied the Tilak (vermilion mark) on his forehead, and prepared a lavish meal. Pleased by her hospitality and love, Yama asked Yami to name a boon. She requested that every year, on this specific day, any brother who visits his sister and receives the ritual Tilak should be protected from the fear of untimely death. Yama granted this wish, thus establishing the tradition.
>>>>>>>>>>>The Belief<<<<<<<<<<<
The Sister as a Shield: The Belief here is that the sister’s prayers and the sacred Tilak act as a shield, spiritually protecting the brother. The Tilak is a sign of respect, a sacred bond, and a prayer for the brother's longevity and prosperity. The sister performs the act of devotion, and the brother, in turn, commits to protecting her throughout her life. It is an ancient affirmation of familial duty.
>>>>>>>>>>>The Cultural Concepts<<<<<<<<<<<
Rituals and Unity: Culturally, this day is marked by the central ceremony: the sister applies the Tilak on the brother's forehead while chanting prayers for his long life and well-being. The brother, in return, offers gifts, a token of his love, and a vow of protection. The ritual also involves a special feast prepared by the sister. It is the perfect, wholesome culmination of the five-day festival, shifting the light from the deities back to the crucial relationships that light up our own lives.
Here Here is a comprehensive guide to safety advice for a bright and injury-free Diwali:
I. Diya, Candle, and Electrical Safety: The glow of Diya's is the heart of the festival, but they are also the primary cause of household fires if not managed correctly.
Placement is Key: Place all lit Diya's and candles on stable, flat, non-flammable surfaces like metal, stone, or ceramic.
Keep Away from Flammables: Ensure they are kept far away from curtains, furniture, paper decorations, loose clothing, electrical wires, and any dry, easily flammable materials.
Supervise the Flame: Never leave lit Diya's or candles unattended, even for a short time.
Extinguish them before going to bed or leaving the house. Children and Pets: Place Diya's and candles out of the reach of young children and pets who might accidentally knock them over.
Check Electrical Lights: Only use certified, good-quality decorative lights.
Inspect them for any frayed wires or broken bulbs and replace them immediately. Avoid Overloading: Do not overload electrical sockets by plugging in too many light strings into one point.
Use surge protectors if necessary, and unplug lights when not in use.
II. Firecracker and Fire Safety: If you choose to use firecrackers, responsible handling is essential to prevent severe injuries.
Location: Light firecrackers only in open, clear spaces like playgrounds or open grounds.
Keep them away from parked vehicles, dry grass, garbage piles, and buildings. Attire: Wear fitted cotton clothes while handling fireworks.
Avoid loose, flowing, or synthetic fabrics (like nylon or polyester) as they catch fire very easily. Tie back long hair. Supervise Children: Children should never light fireworks unsupervised.
Adults must be present and in charge at all times. Maintain Distance: Light fireworks using a long stick (like an incense stick or Agarbatti)
and maintain an arm's length distance. Never lean over a firework while lighting it. The "Dud" Rule: If a cracker doesn't light (a "dud"), do not attempt to relight it or go near it immediately.
Wait at least 15 minutes, pour water over it, and then dispose of it safely. Be Prepared: Always keep a bucket of water, a bucket of sand, and a working fire extinguisher nearby in the area where fireworks are being burst.
Safe Disposal: After the celebration, collect all burnt and unburst fireworks and soak them in a bucket of water before disposing of them in the garbage to ensure no residual sparks remain.
III. Personal and Health Safety: Diwali safety extends to personal well-being and consideration for others.
First Aid Ready: Have a well-stocked first-aid kit ready.
For Minor Burns: Immediately place the burnt area under cool running water for at least 10–15 minutes.
Do NOT apply butter, oil, toothpaste, or turmeric—these can trap heat and worsen the burn. Cover it with a clean, dry cloth. For Severe Burns or Eye Injuries: Seek immediate medical attention. Do not rub or rinse an injured eye.
Noise and Smoke: Be considerate of noise and air pollution.
Use quieter, "green" crackers to reduce noise and smoke.
Keep infants, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory issues (like asthma) indoors with windows closed during peak firecracker time.
Use earplugs for young children if needed.
Pet Safety: Pets are terrified of loud noises.
Keep your pets indoors in the quietest, most secure room of the house. Food Safety: Buy sweets (mithai) only from reputed and trusted shops to avoid food adulteration.
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure a beautiful, joyful, and safe Diwali for yourself, your family, and your community!
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