The essence of Diwali
Tamaso Maa Jyotirgamaya - Lead me from darkness to Light
Diwali is India's biggest and most important holiday of the year. The word Diwali means row (avali) of lamps (Deepa)
When Lord Rama was returning to Ayodhia, people lit up clay lamps (known as diyas) to help Him find His way back. Today Hindus light diyas to symbolize the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness.
Each region of India celebrates Diwali differently
- North India celebrates the return of Lord Rama after spending 14 years of exile in the forest
- South India celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna against demon Narakasura.
- West India celebrates Lord Vishnu's victory over demon king Bali
Each region celebrates Lord Vishnu and its avatars (Rama and Krishna). However it is not just the Great Lord Vishnu who is celebrated. Diwali is incomplete without Goddess Laxmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity.
Goddess Laxmi symbolizes fertility - metaphorically
For centuries, farmers collected crops around October and November, and thanked the Goddess for the prosperity. The harvest festival celebrates the fruit that the fertile land yields, giving us life and sustainability.
Goddess Laxmi does not symbolize capital prosperity. She signifies the ability of nature to create and sustain life
Whether it is honoring Lord Vishnu or Goddess Laxmi, Diwali is celebrated in numerous rituals and customs. However the essence of Diwali has always remained the same
Be The Light
What does that mean?
The real "light" of Diwali is to bring clarity of mind because when the mind is clear, the feeling of inertia or "misery" disappears.
"Diwali is a symbol of beating inertia. When inertia sets in, you will not go to hell - you will be hell. In anger, jealousy, hatred and fear, you create narak and become a Narakasura, the demon. If inertia is taken away, a new light shines" - Sadhguru
A person does not have to bring light from anywhere. He just needs to dispel the dark clouds that have gathered around himself.. and light will happen
That's the true essence of Diwali
The Gayatri Mantra says "Bhargo devasya dhimahi, Dhiyo yo nah prachodayat"
May this Divine light guide and illuminate your intelligence.
Happy Diwali from Cuddly Gurus!
|
By - Cuddly Gurus - Celebrating and honoring great Hindu Icons We offer plush toys that recreate great Indian icons and will delight your little ones. Great Ganesha and Humble Hanuman capture the beauty and perfection of these superheroes and can sing five mantras with a gentle touch to their belly. All of our plush toys are made with care and devotion and accompanied by storybooks carefully crafted to engage young minds through simple, yet colorful storytelling. |