As the festive season arrives, India comes alive with the glowing celebrations of Diwali and Kali Puja. Diwali, known as the “Festival of Lights,” celebrates the triumph of good over evil. It commemorates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, as well as Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura in some regions. Sikhs also celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas on Diwali, marking the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from Mughal captivity. Kali Puja, on the other hand, is dedicated to Goddess Kali, who represents fierce strength and is worshipped for her victory over demons, restoring balance in the cosmos.
Though Diwali and Kali Puja share themes of light and protection, each region in India has its own customs and traditions that bring a unique flavor to the celebrations. Here’s how different parts of India honor these festivals:
North India:
In the northern states, Diwali is widely celebrated as a five-day festival. Homes are decorated with colorful rangolis, and families light earthen lamps and diyas to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. On the main Diwali night, Lakshmi Puja is performed, seeking her blessings for prosperity and happiness. The evening concludes with a grand display of fireworks, symbolizing the joy and brightness of the festival.
Varanasi:
Dev Diwali, or “Diwali of the Gods,” is celebrated on the full moon night of Kartik Purnima, fifteen days after Diwali, and holds special significance in Varanasi. It is believed that on this night, the gods descend to the ghats (riverbanks) of the sacred Ganges to celebrate the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasura. The entire Varanasi ghats come alive with thousands of lamps, or diyas, lit along the river, creating a breathtaking display. Pilgrims and locals gather to offer prayers, perform rituals, and witness the grand Ganga Aarti, a stunning tribute to the river Ganges and its divine significance.
Maharashtra and Gujarat:
In western India, Diwali festivities also span five days, starting with Dhanteras, when people buy gold or utensils for good fortune. Homes are decorated with rangolis, and families perform Lakshmi Puja to invite wealth and well-being. Diwali celebrations here emphasize rituals, prayers, and community gatherings, with the festivities ending on Bhai Dooj, a day dedicated to honoring the bond between brothers and sisters.
West Bengal and Assam:
In East India, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja, where the focus is on worshipping Goddess Kali, a fierce incarnation of Goddess Durga. Kali is honored as the goddess who protects from evil and symbolizes inner strength. The night is marked by elaborate rituals, offerings of rice and sweets, and pandals with Kali idols, especially in West Bengal. The celebrations extend through the night with chanting and offerings, creating an intense, spiritually charged atmosphere.
South India:
In the southern states, Diwali, known as Deepavali, celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The day begins with an oil bath, a traditional custom believed to purify and protect. Families then don new clothes, light lamps, and burst crackers to spread joy and dispel darkness. The celebrations emphasize family gatherings, traditional sweets, and honoring elders.
Whether through the lights of Diwali or the powerful presence of Kali Puja, these festivals bring together different customs, stories, and celebrations, embodying India’s unity in diversity. Each ritual, prayer, and gathering reflects a shared hope for peace, prosperity, and the enduring power of light over darkness.