Deepawali, or Diwali, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India and among the Indian diaspora worldwide. Its significance goes beyond just lights and sweets; it is deeply rooted in mythology and cultural traditions that tell the stories of good triumphing over evil. This blog explores the rich tapestry of tales associated with Deepawali, highlighting the legendary narratives that give meaning to this vibrant festival.
This is 11th Blog in series of total 16 blogs which explores about the Stories and Legends of Deepawali.
The Return of Lord Rama
One of the most well-known legends associated with Deepawali is the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile. According to the ancient epic Ramayana, Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, was banished from his kingdom due to a promise made by his father, King Dasharatha. During their exile, Sita was kidnapped by the demon king Ravana, leading to an epic battle between Rama and Ravana.
Rama, aided by his loyal devotee Hanuman and an army of monkeys, ultimately defeated Ravana, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Upon their return to Ayodhya, the people celebrated by lighting diyas (oil lamps) to illuminate the city and welcome their king. This act of lighting lamps represents the triumph of light over darkness and has become a central practice in Deepawali celebrations.
The Legend of Goddess Lakshmi
Deepawali is also dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and abundance. According to various legends, Lakshmi emerged from the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) alongside other celestial beings. The day of Deepawali is believed to mark the moment when Lakshmi chose to visit Earth and bless her devotees with prosperity.
In many households, it is customary to clean and decorate homes to welcome Lakshmi. People worship her on the night of Diwali, lighting diyas and placing them at entrances and windows to invite her into their homes. This tradition emphasizes the importance of cleanliness, both in physical and spiritual realms, in attracting divine blessings.
The Story of Lord Krishna and Narakasura
Another significant tale associated with Deepawali is the defeat of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna. Narakasura was a tyrant who terrorized the heavens and captured the 16,100 daughters of celestial beings. Krishna, determined to restore peace, engaged Narakasura in battle. After a fierce fight, Krishna emerged victorious, liberating the captives and reinstating order.
The day of Naraka Chaturdashi, observed a day before Deepawali, celebrates this victory. It is believed that on this day, Krishna also bathed in the waters of the ocean, symbolizing the cleansing of sins. This narrative reinforces the theme of justice and the protection of dharma (righteousness), which are core to the essence of Deepawali.
The Story of King Hima’s Son
In some traditions, particularly in North India, the legend of King Hima’s son is recounted during Deepawali. According to the story, a prophecy stated that King Hima’s son would die on the fourth day of his marriage. To thwart this fate, the newlywed bride devised a clever plan. On the fateful night, she filled the house with gold and silver ornaments and lit countless lamps to create a dazzling display.
When Yama, the god of death, arrived to claim the prince, he was mesmerized by the brilliance of the lights and the sound of the melodious music played by the bride. Unable to enter, he sat outside and eventually fell asleep. The bride’s cleverness and devotion saved her husband’s life, and this tale emphasizes the protective power of light, love, and cleverness.
The Festival of Bhai Dooj
Deepawali celebrations also include the festival of Bhai Dooj, which honors the bond between brothers and sisters. According to legend, after Lord Krishna defeated Narakasura, he visited his sister Subhadra. To express her love, Subhadra performed aarti (a ritual of worship) and applied a tilak (mark) on Krishna’s forehead, symbolizing her protective love.
In contemporary practices, sisters pray for their brothers’ well-being and prosperity, while brothers vow to protect their sisters. This ritual highlights the themes of familial bonds and mutual respect, integral to the spirit of Deepawali.
Conclusion
The stories and legends of Deepawali weave a rich narrative that underscores the festival’s themes of light, love, and victory over darkness. Each tale offers a unique perspective on the significance of the festival, reminding us of the moral lessons inherent in these ancient narratives.
As we celebrate Deepawali with lights, sweets, and joyous gatherings, let us also reflect on these timeless stories that enrich our understanding of this cherished festival. By embracing the teachings of love, righteousness, and resilience from these legends, we can illuminate our lives and those of others, carrying forward the true spirit of Deepawali.