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History and Origin of Diwali

The Hindu religious scriptures are a rich source of its history and even so when it comes to Deepavali festival. The references in history may differ and the origin can be understood to stem from many popular legends. But, the learning is the same, that is of the victory of good over evil.

Author: Dipanegi

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Diwali, lighting the lamp of knowledge within us. There is a significant relevance of each of the five days of Divali festivities and these are showcased here.

Dipawali - Five Days of Sounds and Sights of Joy
The first day of Diwali is called Dhanvantari Triodasi or Dhanteras. Second Dipavali Day is called Narak Chaturdasi. It is the fourteenth lunar day (thithi) of the dark fortnight of the month of Kartik and known as Choti Diwali. On this occasion Lord Krishna killed demon Narakasur and made the world free from fear. The third day of Deewali is called Badi Diwali. This is the day when Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped. On the fourth day of Diwali, Goverdhan Pooja is performed. The fifth day of Bhai Dooj is dedicated to the brother sister relationship.

Ram and Sita in Ayodhya
Lord Rama was a great warrior King who was sent to a 14 years exile by his father Dashrath, the King of Ayodhya, along with his wife Sita and his younger brother Lakshman, on his third wife's insistence. Lord Rama returned to his Kingdom Ayodhya after this exile, in which he put an end to the demon Ravana of Lanka, who though was highly learned but still evil dominated his mind. After this victory of Good over Evil, Rama returned to Ayodhya. In Ayodhya, people welcomed them by lighting rows of earthen lamps. So, it is an occasion in honour of Rama's victory over Ravana; of Truth's victory over evil.

King Bali and Vamana Avatar (the Dwarf)
The other story concerns King Bali, who was a generous ruler but he was very ambitious. Gods pleaded with Lord Vishnu to check King Bali's power. Vishnu came to earth in the form of a Vamana (dwarf) dressed as a priest. The dwarf approached King Bali and said "You are the ruler of the three worlds: the Earth, the world above skies and underworld. Would you give me the space that I could cover with three strides?" King Bali laughed. Surely a dwarf could not cover much ground, thought the King. At this point, the dwarf changed into Vishnu and his three strides covered the Earth, the Skies and the whole Universe. King Bali was sent to the underworld.

Narkasur's Defeat by Lord Krishna
Lord Vishnu in his 8th incarnation as Krishna destroyed the demon Narkasura, who was causing unhappiness amongst people of the world. Narkasura was believed to be a demon of filth, covered in dirt. He used to kidnap young women and force them to live with him. Eventually, their cries for rescue were heard by Vishnu, who came in the form of Krishna. First, Krishna had to fight with a five-headed monster who guarded the demon's home. Narkasura hoped that his death might bring joy to others. Krishna granted his request and the women were freed. For Hindus, this story is a reminder that good can come of evil.

Krishna and The Mountain
In the village of Gokula, many years ago, farmers prayed to the God Indra in the belief that Indra will send rains. But Krishna came along and persuaded the people to worship the mountain Govardhan, because the mountain and the land around it were fertile. This did not please Indra who sent thunder and torrential rain. Krishna saved the villagers by lifting the top of the mountain with his little finger. The day after Diwali festival known as Govardhan Pooja reminds us to be thankful to the importance of nature in our lives.

About Author

Dipa Negi is an urbane working woman. She lives in New Delhi, India and works for a multinational company as an assistant manager. Dipa loves following and writing on indian culture, celebrations and shopping. You can check various sources for diwali gifts. I have visited this gifts site. http://diwali.indiangiftsportal.com/, you can also refer this to get ideas on the same.

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History and Origin of Diwali