Date for Diwali 2017: Celebrating the Festival of Lights
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most significant festivals celebrated by Hindus worldwide. It is a time of joy, lights, and festivities, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. This article aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the date for Diwali 2017, exploring its significance, rituals, and cultural importance.
1. The Significance of Diwali:
Diwali holds immense cultural and religious significance for Hindus. It marks the return of Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, from his fourteen-year exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. The festival also commemorates the day when Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura. Diwali signifies the triumph of righteousness and the eradication of evil forces from our lives.
The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. People clean their homes, decorate them with colorful rangolis (intricate patterns made with colored powders), and light diyas (oil lamps) to welcome prosperity and good fortune. Families come together to offer prayers, exchange gifts, and enjoy delicious sweets and savory dishes.
2. Determining the Date for Diwali:
Diwali is celebrated on the fifteenth day of the Hindu month of Kartik, which usually falls between October and November. The exact date varies each year according to the lunar calendar. Diwali is observed on the day of Amavasya (new moon), which is considered an auspicious time for worship.
In 2017, Diwali falls on October 19th, which is a Thursday. The festival spans five days, with each day holding its own significance. The festivities begin with Dhanteras, followed by Naraka Chaturdashi, Diwali, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. Each day has its own rituals and customs, adding to the richness and diversity of the celebrations.
3. Rituals and Customs:
Diwali is a time for religious ceremonies, family gatherings, and cultural celebrations. The festival starts with Dhanteras, where people buy new utensils, jewelry, or other valuable items as a symbol of prosperity. On Naraka Chaturdashi, people wake up early and take an oil bath to cleanse themselves of impurities. This day is also known as Chhoti Diwali.
The main day of Diwali is marked by Lakshmi Puja, where families worship the goddess of wealth and prosperity. They light diyas and offer prayers to seek blessings for a prosperous year ahead. Bursting firecrackers is a common tradition during Diwali, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.
On Govardhan Puja, people make small mounds of cow dung to represent Mount Govardhan and offer prayers to Lord Krishna. Bhai Dooj, the final day of Diwali, celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform aarti (ritual of worship) for their brothers and receive gifts in return.
4. Cultural Importance:
Diwali is not only celebrated by Hindus but also by people from various other religions and cultures. It promotes unity and harmony among communities, fostering a sense of togetherness. The festival signifies the victory of good over evil, spreading the message of love, compassion, and righteousness.
Diwali is also an occasion for economic prosperity as it marks the beginning of the new financial year in India. Businesses decorate their shops, offer discounts, and give bonuses to employees. The festival boosts the economy through increased consumer spending on gifts, clothes, and sweets.
Conclusion:
Diwali, the festival of lights, holds immense cultural and religious significance for Hindus. It is a time of joy, togetherness, and spiritual enlightenment. The date for Diwali in 2017 is October 19th, and the festival spans five days of rituals, customs, and celebrations. As we light diyas and burst firecrackers, let us remember the true essence of Diwali – spreading happiness, love, and positivity in our lives and in the world around us.
