The Story of Deepawali and Similar Festivals Celebrated Around the World
Deepawali or Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most cherished and widely celebrated festivals in India and among Indian communities worldwide. The word “Deepawali” comes from the Sanskrit term ‘Deepavali’, meaning “a row of lights.” This festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Homes are illuminated with oil lamps and candles, streets glow with colorful lights, and hearts fill with hope, joy, and renewal.
The Story Behind Deepawali
The story of Deepawali varies across India’s diverse regions and faiths, yet they all share a common message of righteousness and renewal. In the northern parts of India, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps (diyas) to welcome Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana back home after 14 years of exile. Hence, the lighting of lamps during Deepawali signifies the triumph of good over evil.
In western India, particularly in Gujarat, Diwali is celebrated as the New Year, marking a time for new beginnings, prosperity, and gratitude. For followers of Jainism, Deepawali is a day of spiritual significance as it commemorates the attainment of nirvana by Lord Mahavira. In Sikh tradition, the day also celebrates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from imprisonment, known as the “Bandi Chhor Divas.”
Across India, the celebrations usually last for five days—beginning with Dhanteras, followed by Naraka Chaturdashi, Diwali (the main festival day), Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. Each day has its own importance, focusing on wealth, health, happiness, and the bond between loved ones.
Symbolism and Traditions
Diwali’s central theme revolves around light. Lighting diyas and candles is believed to ward off evil spirits and invite positive energy. People clean and decorate their homes to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Rangolis made from colored powders and flowers adorn entrances, while families exchange sweets, gifts, and blessings.
In recent years, eco-friendly celebrations have become popular, with many people opting for natural decorations and reducing firecracker use to protect the environment. Despite modernization, the festival continues to uphold its timeless message: that hope and goodness will always prevail.
Festivals Similar to Deepawali Around the World
While Deepawali is uniquely Indian in its roots, many cultures across the globe celebrate similar festivals that revolve around light, renewal, and community. These global celebrations highlight how humanity universally values light as a symbol of peace and spiritual triumph.
1. Lantern Festival (China)
The Chinese Lantern Festival marks the end of the Lunar New Year celebrations. People light and release colorful lanterns into the sky or float them on rivers, symbolizing letting go of the past and welcoming a bright future. Like Diwali, it represents hope, family unity, and the light of wisdom dispelling darkness.
2. Hanukkah (Jewish Festival of Lights)
Hanukkah, celebrated by Jewish communities around the world, is also known as the Festival of Lights. It commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days. Families light the menorah (a special candelabrum), exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional foods like latkes and doughnuts. The themes of light, faith, and resilience closely mirror those of Diwali.
3. Loy Krathong (Thailand)
Thailand’s Loy Krathong is another beautiful festival of light. Celebrated on the full moon of the twelfth lunar month, people release floating baskets made of banana leaves, candles, and flowers onto rivers and lakes. It’s a way to honor the water goddess and let go of anger, grudges, and misfortune. The shimmering rivers during Loy Krathong evoke the same visual splendor as Diwali nights.
4. Vesak (Buddhist Festival of Lights)
Vesak, celebrated by Buddhists across Asia, marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha. Temples are decorated with lanterns, candles, and flowers, symbolizing spiritual illumination. Like Diwali, Vesak emphasizes compassion, inner peace, and the triumph of wisdom over ignorance.
5. Christmas (Christian Festival)
Though primarily a religious festival celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, Christmas also shares the theme of light. Homes and streets are decorated with candles, stars, and fairy lights, representing the “light of the world.” Both Diwali and Christmas bring families together, promote
