Deepawali or Diwali is certainly the biggest and the brightest of all Hindu
festivals. It's the festival of lights (deep = light and avali
= a row i.e., a row of lights) that's marked by four days of celebration, which
literally illumines the country with its brilliance, and dazzles all with its
joy. Each of the four days in the festival of Diwali is separated by a different
tradition, but what remains true and constant is the celebration of life, its
enjoyment and goodness.
The Significance of Lights & Firecrackers
All the simple rituals of Diwali have a significance and a story to tell. The illumination of homes with lights and the skies with firecrackers is an expression of obeisance to the heavens for the attainment of health, wealth, knowledge, peace and prosperity. According to one belief, the sound of fire-crackers are an indication of the joy of the people living on earth, making the gods aware of their plentiful state. Still another possible reason has a more scientific basis: the fumes produced by the crackers kill a lot of insects and mosquitoes, found in plenty after the rains (forget about pollution n stuff...just enjoy the show)
This a traditional way to celebrate Diwali for the residents of Dombivali to celebrate Diwali
Colorful lanterns and stars hang from roadside stalls on the eve of Diwali festival in Mumbai.
