Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a major Hindu festival celebrated by millions of people around the world. It usually lasts five days and marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. The festival has several mythological stories associated with it, and different regions in India have their own interpretations. Here are some of the prominent stories:
Return of Lord Rama:
One of the most well-known stories associated with Diwali is the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. According to the epic Ramayana, Rama, along with his wife Sita and loyal companion Hanuman, returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. The people of Ayodhya celebrated their return by lighting lamps, and this tradition continues today with the lighting of diyas (oil lamps) during Diwali.
Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu:
Another popular legend is the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), where gods and demons sought the elixir of immortality (amrita). During this churning, Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, emerged from the ocean and chose Lord Vishnu as her consort. Diwali is considered the day when Lakshmi chose Vishnu as her husband, and worshiping them during this time is believed to bring wealth and prosperity.
Lord Krishna and the defeat of Narakasura:
In some parts of India, Diwali is associated with the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. According to the Bhagavata Purana, Krishna killed Narakasura, who had kidnapped and imprisoned thousands of women. After his victory, Krishna returned to his city, Dwarka, and the people celebrated by lighting lamps.
King Bali and Lord Vishnu:
According to another legend, King Bali, a generous and virtuous king, performed a yajna (sacrificial ritual) to gain power. Lord Vishnu, in the form of a dwarf Brahmin named Vamana, approached Bali and asked for as much land as he could cover in three steps. Bali agreed, and Vamana then expanded to cover the entire universe in three steps. As a result, Bali was pushed into the underworld. However, due to Bali’s devotion and generosity, Vishnu granted him permission to return to the Earth once a year. This day is celebrated as Bali Pratipada or Balipadyami, and it is considered a part of Diwali.
These stories vary across regions, and the significance of Diwali may differ in different parts of India. Nonetheless, the common theme is the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and the celebration of prosperity and joy.
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