Here comes the festival of lights, Diwali! During this time, celebrants illuminate their house with candles, lamps, etc.
The celebration signifies the importance of nurturing the inner light within us because ultimately the festival is all about the victory of good over evil. Diwali, in essence, is a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness.
There are several stories behind the celebration of Diwali. Each varies depending on the regional and cultural contexts.
Here are some well-known stories behind the celebration of Diwali.
Return of Lord Rama- Diwali is celebrated to commemorate Lord Rama’s royal return to Ayodhya with his wife, Sita and brother, Lakshmana after defeating the 10-headed demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit lamps as a gesture to welcome them back after 14 years of exile.
The victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura- Yet another story in Hindu mythology is the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura and freed 16,000 girls who were under his captivity. The day before Diwali is commemorated as Naraka Chaturdashi, the day on which Lord Krishna killed Narakasura. As part of the festivity, people in various parts of India burn effigies of the two demon kings. Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Chhoti Diwali. “Naraka” means hell and “Chaturdashi” means “fourteenth”. Many Hindus consider this as an auspicious occasion to pray and also conduct many rituals to get moksha for the departed souls.
Goddess Mahalakshmi- Another popular tradition that people follow during Diwali is worshipping goddess Lakshmi who is considered as the source of wealth and prosperity. This festival, believers also admire the romantic story of the goddess choosing Lord Vishnu as her husband on the night of Diwali. During this time, they conduct various pujas to entice the Goddess.
Celebrate India’s biggest festival by feeding children
Festivals are always the time for buying new clothes, accessories, gadgets, etc. During Diwali, people visit their dear ones, exchange gifts and enjoy spending time together. Sharing sweets is also a long-standing custom during Diwali, symbolizing the sweetness of life and the joy of giving. During these festive seasons, it’s crucial to keep in mind those who are in less fortunate circumstances and take action to help them.
There are numerous ways to make a positive impact on society. One way is to support the future generation of our nation by providing nutritious meals in schools, thereby empowering them for a better future.
Spread the light of kindness with Akshaya Patra
The Akshaya Patra Foundation is an NGO for children that implements the Government of India’s PM POSHAN Abhiyaan (previously known as the Mid-Day Meal Programme) in numerous schools across India. With an aim to eradicate classroom hunger, we have reached feeding over 2 million children on a daily basis. Children who belong to financially limited backgrounds often compromise on their education or even if they come to school they won’t be able to concentrate on classes due to hunger. Mid-Day Meal Programme ensures that they are having one nutritious meal every day.
This festival, gift children the power of nutrition. It helps them to develop their creativity and boosts their self-confidence. Thus, they can concentrate on their studies and perform well in academics, which in turn builds a mature generation who act responsibly on different social issues in the country.
Just like a diya transfers light to the next and so on, your kindness can brighten their lives and radiate goodness throughout the world, making it a better place.
