What Is Diwali?
Diwali or Deepavali means a ” Row of Light” in Sanskrit. This is a 4-5-day event celebrated to symbolise the triumph of light over darkness or knowledge over ignorance. Diya lamps are lit on rooftops, doorsteps, and all corners of the house is illuminated. These oil lamps are made from clay with a cotton wick soaked in ghee (clarified butter).
The celebration of light was fist mentioned in the Padma Purana and Skanda Purana, estimated to be written anywhere between the 4th-12th century CE. Although, it is believed to have been celebrated hundreds of years before the earliest record. There are various tales about the origins of this festival, varying by region.
When is Diwali Celebrated?
Diwali is celebrated on the new moon night and the date is chosen according to the Hindu Lunar Calendar. Each year Diwali starts on a different day, below is a list of dates for the next few years:
The first day of Diwali is called DhanTeras, to celebrate Lord Dhanwantar
The second day of Diwali is called is called Choti Diwali
The third day of Diwali is called Badi Diwali
The fourth day of Diwali is called
