Diwali

Pooja with pandit Sridharji with prasad lunch donated by VMCC.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and across the world. It marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, and it is dedicated to the worship of Lord Rama, the goddess Lakshmi, and various other deities depending on regional traditions. The festival generally falls between October and November, on the 15th day of the Hindu month of Kartika.

Significance of Diwali

1.Return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya:

•Diwali celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. It is believed that the people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps (diyas) to welcome Rama home, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

2.Worship of Goddess Lakshmi:

•Diwali is also the day that Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune, is worshiped. According to tradition, it is on this day that she visits homes that are clean and well-lit, bringing blessings for the coming year.

3.Victory of Good Over Evil:

•Diwali is celebrated as the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. It is a time to reflect on removing inner darkness and impurities.

4.The Birth of Lord Krishna (in some regions):

•In some regions of India, especially in Mathura and Vrindavan, Diwali is celebrated to mark the birth of Lord Krishna, who is believed to have defeated the demon Narakasura on this day.

Spiritual and Moral Lessons of Diwali

1.Victory of Good Over Evil:

•Diwali serves as a reminder that good will ultimately triumph over evil, no matter how powerful evil forces may seem. It encourages individuals to purify their hearts and minds and strive for righteousness.

2.Self-Reflection and Renewal:

•The lighting of diyas and the cleaning of homes symbolize the removal of ignorance and the illumination of the soul. Diwali encourages self-reflection, self-improvement, and the removal of negative qualities like pride, greed, and envy.

3.Gratitude and Generosity:

•Diwali is a time for expressing gratitude to loved ones, neighbors, and the community. It emphasizes the importance of giving, sharing, and helping those in need, both materially and spiritually.