Diwali 2022: How Light, Rituals, and Feasts Unite Millions in Celebration
Diwali, one of Hinduism's most important festivals, is celebrated over five days with vibrant traditions. The event marks the return of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile. It symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
The festival begins with Dhanteras and concludes with Bhai Dooj. Central to the celebrations is Lakshmi Puja, a ritual performed to seek blessings for prosperity and well-being.
Preparations for Diwali start with cleaning and decorating homes. The main entrance is adorned with flowers, lights, and rangoli patterns to welcome guests and deities. On the day itself, families illuminate their houses with diyas, fairy lights, and candles, creating a warm, glowing atmosphere.
Lakshmi Puja follows specific customs for maximum blessings. A ghee lamp is placed on the right side of the deity, while an oil lamp and incense sticks go on the left. At least 11 ghee lamps must be lit during the ritual, with one large lamp kept burning throughout the evening. The puja muhurat for Diwali 2022 fell between 5:39 pm and 8:14 pm on October 24.
Food plays a key role in the celebrations, with regional specialities taking centre stage. In North India, sweets like ladoo, barfi, gulab jamun, and kaju katli are prepared, while Gujarat favours chakli, fafda-jalebi, and mathri. Maharashtra enjoys karanji, puran poli, and basundi, whereas South India serves mysore pak, payasam, and athirasam. In the East, particularly Bengal, sandesh and rasgulla are popular choices.
Families gather to share meals, exchange gifts, and strengthen bonds. The festival blends devotion, tradition, and joy, making it a cherished time for millions.
Diwali brings communities together through rituals, feasts, and shared celebrations. The festival's customs—from lighting lamps to preparing regional delicacies—reflect its deep cultural and spiritual significance. Each year, it reinforces themes of hope, unity, and the victory of righteousness.
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