~~F*$t^V@l oF L^g#t$~~
Today is Diwali, the festival of lights. Indians all across the country celebrate this day by lighting diyas and candles and bursting crackers. I’m no less an Indian so no less celebrations for me
Diwali holds a significant landmark in the Hindu mythology. After an arduous 14-year exile in the forest, Lord Ram came back to Ayodhya. This day is marked by the defeat of the evil and victory of the good. It also symbolizes the victory of light (knowledge) over darkness (ignorance). Lord Ram swept clean the earth from malice, wickedness, immorality and sin by overpowering Ravana. Everyone was anxiously looking forward to the homecoming of Lord Ram and welcomed him by lighting rows (avali) of lamps (deep). Diwali is thus traditionally called ‘Deepavali’. The celebration is invariably accompanied by the exchange of sweets among friends and family.
In Bengal, Diwali is associated with the goddess Kali. Here’s the legend behind Kali puja.
Once the demons named Shambhu and Nishambhu grew in force and pose a challenge to Indra, King of Gods, and his Kingdom of Heaven. Gods sought protection from Mahamaya Durga, the Goddess of Shakti or Power. At this stage Goddess Kali was born from Durga’s forehead as Kal Bhoi Nashini to save heaven and earth from the growing cruelty of the demons.
After slaughtering the demons, Kali made a garland of their heads and wore it around her neck. In the bloodbath, she lost control and started killing anyone who came her way. There was chaos all around. To stop her, Lord Shiva threw himself under her feet. Shocked at this sight, Kali stuck out her tongue in astonishment, and put an end to her killing spree. The well-known picture of Kali Ma shown with her tongue hanging out actually depicts the moment when she steps on Lord Shiva and repents.
That momentous day is celebrated ever since as Kali Puja. Performing the Puja with faith devotees seek protection against drought and war and blessings of general happiness, health and prosperity. It is a tantrik puja performed only at midnight on Amavasya.
Be it Diwali or Kali puja, it signifies the renewal of life. It’s 11 in the morning and I can already hear the sound of crackers from everywhere. I guess I got to go and plan my day. Wishing everyone a very happy and safe Diwali.