Which State Celebrates Diwali: Exploring the Vibrant Festivities Across India

Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time of joy, celebration, and spiritual rejuvenation for millions of people across India. It is a festival that marks the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. The festivities of Diwali extend over several days, each with its own unique customs and traditions. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey to explore how different states in India celebrate Diwali and the fascinating stories behind this ancient festival.

Diwali: A Historical and Mythological Perspective

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, has its roots in ancient Hindu scriptures and mythology. The festival is mentioned in various texts, including the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. According to the Ramayana, Diwali celebrates the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana to their kingdom of Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile. The people of Ayodhya welcomed them by lighting oil lamps, or diyas, to illuminate their path.

In the Mahabharata, Diwali is associated with the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon king Narakasura. It is said that Lord Krishna freed thousands of princesses who had been held captive by Narakasura and restored peace and prosperity to their kingdoms. To commemorate this victory of good over evil, people light lamps, burst firecrackers, and exchange sweets and gifts during Diwali.

Diwali Celebrations Across India

Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor in every corner of India. Let us now embark on a journey to discover how different states in India celebrate Diwali:

1. Maharashtra

In Maharashtra, Diwali is celebrated with the traditional ritual of 'Vasubaras,' where married women worship cows and calves. The highlight of Diwali in Maharashtra is the lighting of oil lamps and the bursting of firecrackers. People also create beautiful rangoli designs at the entrance of their homes to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.

2. West Bengal

In West Bengal, Diwali coincides with the celebration of the Hindu goddess Kali. The festival is known as Kali Puja and is marked by elaborate rituals, including the offering of prayers, the lighting of lamps, and the performance of traditional dances and songs.

3. Gujarat

Gujarat is famous for its vibrant and colorful Navratri celebrations, which culminate in the festival of Diwali. The state comes alive with the sound of music, dance, and the rhythmic beats of the dandiya sticks. People dress in traditional attire and participate in Garba dance performances throughout the night.

4. Punjab

In Punjab, Diwali is celebrated as 'Bandi Chhor Divas,' which marks the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh guru, from imprisonment in 1619. The Golden Temple in Amritsar is beautifully illuminated with thousands of oil lamps, and people gather to offer prayers and seek blessings.

5. Tamil Nadu

In Tamil Nadu, Diwali is celebrated as a day of gratitude to the Hindu god Krishna. People wake up early in the morning, take an oil bath, wear new clothes, and visit temples to offer prayers. The streets are adorned with beautiful kolam designs, and people burst firecrackers to celebrate the victory of light over darkness.

FAQs 

Q: Which state in India celebrates Diwali with the most enthusiasm?

A: Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm in every state of India. However, states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and West Bengal are known for their grand celebrations and unique customs.

Q: How can I make my Diwali celebrations eco-friendly?

A: To make your Diwali celebrations eco-friendly, you can opt for Phool's flower-based bambooless incense sticks, soy wax candles, and plantable crackers. These products are not only sustainable but also contribute to the livelihood of marginalized women.

Q: Where can I find unique Diwali gift boxes?

A: Phool offers a wide range of exquisite Diwali gift boxes, including the Phool Shubh Mahotsav and Dhamaka box, the Phool Diwali Mela Gift Box, the Phool Asth Laxmi Collection, and the Ramayan box. These gift boxes are thoughtfully curated and beautifully packaged, making them perfect for gifting your loved ones.

Takeaways

Diwali is a celebration that transcends borders, bringing together diverse cultures, traditions, and vibrant festivities across India. Each state offers its unique flavor of this festival of lights, reflecting the rich tapestry of Indian heritage. As families come together to illuminate their homes, share sweets, and exchange gifts, they embrace the spirit of joy and renewal that Diwali embodies.

As we celebrate this festival, let us remember the beautiful words of Mahatma Gandhi: “Light a lamp of love; blast the darkness of hatred; hold on to the lamp of truth; and share the light of peace.” May your Diwali be filled with light, love, and cherished moments with your loved ones!