Diwali for Sikhs
Sikhs celebrate Diwali because their sixth Guru, Guru Hargobindji, returned from a great victory on that day. He freed many innocent people who had been imprisoned without any form of violence.
Diwali for Hindus
In Northern India, Hindus celebrate Diwali to mark the triumph of Lord Ram over the demon Raksah.
In Eastern India, Hindus celebrate Diwali for a different reason, which is to honour the Goddess Kali destroying Bakasura (demon).
In Southern India, Hindus celebrate Diwali for yet another reason, which is to commemorate Lord Krishna killing Narakasura (demon).
Other Hindus celebrate Diwali because the rightful heir returned to the throne after being expelled to the forest for 14 years by his ,stepmother who wanted her son to be King.
Diwali for Jains
Diwali for Jains is the celebration of Mahavir Bhagwan’s attainment of Moksha ~ abundant, infinite, eternal bliss ~ ultimate liberation, and absolute freedom from all karmic bondage of the cycle of birth and rebirth. The reason why Jains celebrate Diwali is also due to a conquest. This time, the conquest is about Lord Mahaveer attaining Nirvana. It is also an illuminating time to contemplate on the path to Moksha, which is shown to us through the teachings of Mahavir Bhagwan. The significance of the light thus represents the sharing of knowledge.
Deepavali is a Sanskrit word which means rows of light. Deepavali is usually shortened to Diwali. The core activity (as we should all know!) associated with Diwali is to give thanks to the Gods and to share goodwill with others.
Countless festivals are celebrated in India, but as you can see above, Diwali is unusual in that many people of different faiths mark this occasion.
In essence, these reasons for celebrating Diwali have one thing in common ~ they are about good conquering evil.
Happy Deepavali to you all!
Shubh Diwali ane Nutan Varsh Abhinanda – Through the momentum of the light, hoping that all your dreams shine bright.’


1 Comment
Anon · July 20, 2009 at 8:48 am
Very inspirational