From the illuminating banks of the Sarayu River in Ayodhya to the mystical Kali Puja celebrations in Assam, Diwali's spirit transcends geographical boundaries, weaving a tapestry of diverse traditions and beliefs across India. This year, the festival of lights is set to be observed on October 20th, with variations in customs, rituals, and food enriching the celebrations in different regions.
In Ayodhya, the celebrations are particularly vibrant, with markets abuzz with devotees seeking Ram Lalla idols. These miniature idols, capturing the divine innocence of Lord Ram, have become the most sought-after keepsakes among visitors to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. The city is adorned with lamp-shaped illuminations, enhancing its spiritual ambiance, and preparations are in full swing for Deepotsav 2025. Ayodhya transforms into a city of light and devotion, with millions of diyas shimmering across the Saryu River and chants echoing through ancient temples.
However, Diwali is more than just a Hindu festival; it's a multi-faith celebration observed by Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists across India. Each community brings its unique perspective to the festival, united by the common themes of a bountiful harvest, an auspicious new year, and the unity of family and friends. Universally, the days of Diwali are reserved for cleaning homes, purchasing new items, decorating with oil lamps and rangolis, prayers, and exchanging gifts.
In Assam, Diwali often coincides with Kali Puja, particularly in places like Guwahati, Nagaon, and Dibrugarh. At the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, the Kali Puja is celebrated with grand rituals and powerful tantric traditions. Unlike Lakshmi Puja, which is observed a few days before Diwali on Kartik Purnima, Diwali night in Assam is dedicated to worshipping Goddess Kali. However, this year, some trade bodies and fan clubs are urging a noiseless Diwali in Assam, with people being urged to dedicate the festival to the memory of the late singer Zubeen Garg. The Purvottar Pradesh Marwari Sammelan has appealed to the public to observe the festival in a simple and dignified manner, avoiding fireworks and grand celebrations. The All Assam Zubeen Garg Fan Club has requested that fans refrain from bursting firecrackers or organizing lavish celebrations, emphasizing that the state continues to mourn Zubeen's death.
Celebrations also vary across different regions of India. In West Bengal, Diwali is celebrated as Kali Puja, with grand pandals and major fanfare. In Goa, massive effigies of Narakasura are burned to signify the victory of good over evil. Rajasthan hosts a unique Diwali celebration that coincides with the Pushkar Camel Fair, featuring colorfully decorated camels and cultural dances. Punjab's Golden Temple is the site of Bandi Chor Divas, marked by the feeding of millions of people and a large fireworks display. In South India, Diwali is celebrated with a focus on the worship of deities, lighting lamps, and enjoying traditional sweets and snacks.
Diwali is a time for visiting loved ones, exchanging gifts, wearing new clothes, feasting and setting off fireworks. Homes are decorated, and floors are covered with rangolis. The doors and windows of houses are kept open in the hope that Lakshmi will find her way inside and bless the residents with wealth and success. The five days of Diwali include Dhanteras, Naraka Chaturdashi, Lakshmi Puja, gift exchanges, and Bhai Dooj.
