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Diwali Celebration in Different Religions of India.
Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India and across the world. While many associate it primarily with Hinduism, the beauty of Diwali lies in its universal message of light triumphing over darkness and good prevailing over evil. What makes this festival truly remarkable is that it transcends religious boundaries—being celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and even Buddhists, each community adding its own spiritual significance and rituals to the festival.
This diversity in celebration not only showcases India’s rich cultural heritage but also emphasizes unity in diversity—a principle deeply embedded in the Indian ethos. Let us explore how Diwali is celebrated across different religions and what it symbolizes for each of them.
1. Diwali in Hinduism: The Victory of Light Over Darkness
For Hindus, Diwali is one of the most significant festivals, celebrated with immense enthusiasm, devotion, and joy. It marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya welcomed Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana by lighting earthen lamps (diyas), which gave the festival its iconic symbolism—the illumination of lights signifying the triumph of good over evil and truth over falsehood.
In different regions of India, Diwali has varied meanings:
- In North India, it commemorates Lord Rama’s homecoming.
- In Gujarat, it marks the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
- In Bengal, it coincides with the worship of Goddess Kali, the destroyer of evil forces.
- In South India, it celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura.
Homes are cleaned, decorated, and illuminated with lamps and rangolis. Families exchange sweets, perform Lakshmi Puja, and burst fireworks as part of the joyful celebration. Diwali, in the Hindu tradition, thus stands as a symbol of renewal, prosperity, and inner light.
2. Diwali in Jainism: The Attainment of Nirvana by Lord Mahavira
For Jains, Diwali holds a deeply spiritual and solemn meaning. It marks the anniversary of Lord Mahavira’s attainment of Nirvana (liberation) at Pawapuri in 527 BCE. According to Jain scriptures, on this night, Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, achieved ultimate enlightenment and was freed from the cycle of birth and death.
The event is considered sacred because it signifies moksha—the highest goal in Jain philosophy. To commemorate this moment, the Jains light lamps, symbolizing the light of spiritual knowledge that dispels the darkness of ignorance.
Historically, it is said that the gods illuminated the universe to mark the enlightenment of Mahavira. Since then, lighting lamps during Diwali has become an important ritual in Jain households and temples.
Jains also engage in prayers, meditation, and acts of forgiveness during this time. The day following Diwali is celebrated as the New Year (Vira Nirvana Samvat) in the Jain calendar. It is a day of self-reflection, spiritual renewal, and setting resolutions for a righteous life.
In essence, for Jains, Diwali is not about material celebration—it is about self-purification, compassion, and seeking forgiveness for one’s past mistakes.
3. Diwali in Sikhism: Bandi Chhor Divas – The Festival of Freedom
For Sikhs, Diwali coincides with a historic event known as Bandi Chhor Divas, meaning the day of liberation. This day commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, from imprisonment in the Gwalior Fort by Mughal Emperor Jahangir. Guru Hargobind Ji not only secured his own release but also insisted on the freedom of 52 Hindu kings who were unjustly imprisoned with him.
To honor his compassion and courage, the people of Amritsar illuminated the Golden Temple with thousands of lamps when Guru Hargobind Ji returned. Since then, Sikhs across the world celebrate this day with light, prayer, and gratitude.
Bandi Chhor Divas symbolizes freedom, justice, and righteousness. Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) are beautifully decorated with lights and candles, and community kitchens (langars) serve free meals to all, emphasizing equality and service to humanity.
While the celebration often coincides with Hindu Diwali, its spiritual essence for Sikhs is distinct—focusing not on wealth or victory, but on liberation, selflessness, and standing up for truth and justice.
4. Diwali in Buddhism: The Enlightened Path of Emperor Ashoka
Among Buddhists, Diwali holds a unique meaning, particularly in regions like Maharashtra and Ladakh. The festival is associated with Emperor Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism after witnessing the immense suffering caused by the Kalinga War.
Ashoka, once a fierce conqueror, renounced violence and embraced the path of peace, compassion, and non-violence—the core principles of Buddhism. Diwali, therefore, symbolizes inner transformation and the victory of enlightenment over ignorance.
In Buddhist tradition, the festival is celebrated by lighting lamps and chanting prayers, symbolizing the spreading of the light of wisdom. Monasteries and homes are decorated, and Buddhists engage in meditation and teachings of the Buddha’s philosophy.
Thus, for Buddhists, Diwali represents peace, mindfulness, and spiritual awakening, echoing the broader message of enlightenment found across all Indian traditions.
5. The Universal Message of Diwali
Despite their differences, the celebrations of Diwali across Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Buddhism share a common spiritual thread—the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.
The lamps lit during Diwali, whether in temples, homes, or monasteries, symbolize hope and renewal. Each religion interprets this light in its own way:
- For Hindus, it is divine prosperity and the triumph of good.
- For Jains, it is the illumination of the soul and spiritual liberation.
- For Sikhs, it represents justice, courage, and moral freedom.
- For Buddhists, it stands for peace, wisdom, and inner transformation.
In this way, Diwali transcends religion and becomes a universal celebration of humanity. It teaches us that while paths may differ, the ultimate goal remains the same—to dispel darkness within and around us.
6. Diwali as a Symbol of Unity in Diversity
In a country as diverse as India, Diwali is more than just a religious festival—it is a cultural bond that unites people from various faiths and backgrounds. Streets, markets, and homes glow with lights; neighbors exchange greetings regardless of religion; and communities come together in celebration.
This shared joy reflects the essence of India’s secular spirit. The festival encourages people to look beyond differences, embrace peace, and celebrate shared human values.
Conclusion
Diwali is not confined to any single faith—it is a celebration of light, liberation, and learning that resonates with every soul seeking peace and truth. Whether it is Lord Rama’s return, Lord Mahavira’s Nirvana, Guru Hargobind Ji’s release, or Emperor Ashoka’s enlightenment, each story carries a profound message for humanity: that light, truth, and compassion are the eternal guides of life.
As we light our lamps this Diwali, may we remember that the true festival of lights is not just about bright homes—but about illuminated hearts and enlightened minds.
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