Festivals of the Indian Autumn Diwali and Dussehra

Festivals of the Indian Autumn Diwali and Dussehra

Spiritual Significance of the Festivals of Dussehra and Diwali “The Legend goes as. . . Lord Ram was sent to exile in the forest as his step mother wanted to make her own son the king. His wife Sita and brother Lakshman also decided to accompany him. While in the jungle, Sita was abducted by Raavan who is said to have 10 heads. She was rescued by Ram and Lakshman who took the help of Lord Hanuman(The Monkey God), killed Raavan and returned to his kingdom, Ayodhya after a 20 -Day journey. It was a New Moon day and the people lit up Diyas(small oil lamps) to spread light and welcome Lord Ram and mark the ‘Victory of Good over Evil’. ”

The Festivals of Dussehra and Diwali �From that day every year we burn the effigies of Raavan, Meghnaath(his son) and Kumbhkaran(his brother). This day is known as the festival of Dussehra. � 20 -Days after Dussehra when Lord Ram returned to his Kingdom Ayodhya, we celebrate the festival of lights, Diwali.

Burning of the effigies of Raavan, Meghnaath(his son) and Kumbhkaran(his brother).

Diwali “The Festival of Lights”

Diwali Celebration � The name "Diwali" is a contraction of "Deepawali”, which translates into “row of lamps”. Diwali involves the lighting of small clay lamps filled with oil(Diyas) to signify the triumph of good over evil. � On Diwali we make colorful patterns known as ‘Rangoli’ at the entrances and the place of worship. � During Diwali, all the celebrants wear new clothes and share sweets and snacks with family members and friends. � Deepawali marks the worship of Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth and Lord Ganesha- The Lord of Wisdom. � During Diwali, lights illuminate every corner of India and the scent of incense sticks hangs in the air, mingled with the sounds of fire-crackers, joy, togetherness and hope.

Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha

Rangoli patterns. D i y a s

Houses being lit up with light, diyas and lamps.