The Festival of Lights

Diwali/Deepavali, the well-known festival of lights, is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains all over the world. The name comes from the Sanskrit word “Deepavali”, meaning “row of lights”, and the lighting of clay lamps all over the house is common practice during this festival.

While the most common story of Diwali is that of Lord Rama’s return to his home, Ayodhya, after his triumph over the demon Ravana who kidnapped his wife, there are also several other mythological stories that explain why this colourful festival is celebrated. In the South of India and Sri Lanka, the belief is that on this day, the demon Naraka was defeated by Lord Krishna. Naraka had a boon that meant only his mother, Bhudevi (Mother Earth) could kill him, and upon seeing the destruction the demon was causing, Bhudevi reincarnated as Lord Krishna’s wife, Satyabhama, and together they defeated this tyrant. Similar to the way Guy Fawkes’ night is celebrated, effigies of the demons (Ravana or Naraka) are burnt, and fireworks are done as a means of celebrating the triumph of good over evil.

Whatever you believe to be the story behind the festival, and however you are going to celebrate, the Thamarai team wish you a wonderful Deepavali, filled with happiness, peace and prosperity.