Diwali Celebrations down South in India

Diwali is celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi. It symbolizes the slaying of the demon king Naraka and the victory of good over evil. Lord Krishna vanquished the demon and it is believed that Deepavali is celebrated to commemorate this event . The demon asked for one last wish which was granted to him. He asked for a day of enjoyment before death. The festival also denotes the arrival of Goddess Laxmi.

Lights, Sweets, Puja are the common factors that define the festival. There are a few rituals which are region specific. One day prior to Diwali the oven in which water for bath is to be boiled is cleaned, smeared with lime; four to five kumkum dots are applied and filled with water. The house is washed and decorated with rangoli patterns. The puja room is special and items like betel leaves, betel nuts, plaintain, fruits, flowers, sandal paste, kumkum, gingelly oil, turmeric powder, scented powder are neatly arranged. Crackers and new clothes are also placed on a tray after smearing a little kumkum and sandal paste.

Early in the morning the eldest member in the family applies sesame oil on the heads of family members. A bitter concoction is consumed which is believed to rid the body of toxic wastes. Then the members have their Diwali-bath one by one beginning with the youngest member in the family.

The puja room looks ornate with puja items and prashad which includes freshly prepared snacks like murukku and sweet preparations from grated coconut. Bhajans are sung .The tinkling of bells and aarti brings in a spiritual aura. After offering prayers breakfast consisting of idli, dosa or vada is served. A sweet preparation made of flour and coconut filling is also served.

Then firecrackers are burst and gifts exchanged between family members and friends. The gifts may include sweets, chocolates, combos or jewelry. In the evening the festival of lights comes alive with the lighting of lamps and other illumination. Fireworks are also seen. For newly married couple the 'Thalai Deepavali' is special as newly weds visit the bride's parental home.

The festival of lights is indeed a time for revelry irrespective of the disparity in regions. The beliefs and rituals may vary but the fun quotient is unparalleled to any other Hindu festival.