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DIVALI Divali celebrates Lord Rama's return from fourteen years of exile to Ayodhya after the defeat of Ravana and his subsequent coronation as king.It follows exactly twenty days after Dusherra. The word Divali means 'rows of lighted lamps'. Divali is commonly referred to as the festival of lights because houses, shops and public places are decorated with small earthenware oil lamps called diyas. It is the most celebrated of Hindu festivals, celebrated by all who follow the Hindu way of life. The celebrations are extensive and joyous and last for several days. Two days before the Divali the house is cleansed ("white washed") and children are taken out to buy fireworks, candles, sweets (methai) and gifts - this day is referred to as 'Dhan teras'. The day before Divali (known as Choti Divali') the house is decorated and gifts distributed to family and friends houses and vice versa.
On the actual day everyone bathes early in the morning and prepares to celebrate. Families and friends are still visited and visa versa. Respect is paid to the elders in the family by 'touching their feet'. In the evening everyone dresses in their best outfits. The house is lit with candles and lamps. Prayers (Puja) are carried out with 'teeka' placed on everyone's forehead. Sweets and fruit taken as offerings (prasad). The story of Divali is recited after which the fireworks are lit. The whole family sits to eat a vegetarian dish.
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